Topical Skin Care Formulations Comprising Plant Extracts

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are compositions and corresponding methods of their use that include plant, plant parts, or extracts thereof from  Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunus cerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inula helianthus - aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galium aparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa, Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscuta chinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona, Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanum coagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobus suberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Lonicera calcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum, Acacia pennata  ssp.  Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themeda japonica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate, Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhinia touranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta , and/or  Cratoxylum prunifolium , or any combination thereof.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/472,461, filed Apr. 6, 2011. The contents of the referencedapplication are incorporated into the present application by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to compositions that include oneor any combination of plants or extracts thereof selected from the groupconsisting of: Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunus cerasifera,Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and Cratoxylumprunifolium. The compositions can be formulated as topical skincompositions, edible compositions, injectible compositions, oralcompositions, hair care compositions, etc.

B. Description of Related Art

Ageing, chronic exposure to adverse environmental factors, malnutrition,fatigue, etc., can change the visual appearance, physical properties, orphysiological functions of skin in ways that are considered visuallyundesirable. The most notable and obvious changes include thedevelopment of fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, increasedsagging, loss of firmness, loss of color evenness or tone, coarsesurface texture, and mottled pigmentation. Less obvious, but measurablechanges which occur as skin ages or endures chronic environmental insultinclude a general reduction in cellular and tissue vitality, reductionin cell replication rates, reduced cutaneous blood flow, reducedmoisture content, accumulated errors in structure and function,alterations in the normal regulation of common biochemical pathways, anda reduction in the skin's ability to remodel and repair itself. Many ofthe alterations in appearance and function of the skin are caused bychanges in the outer epidermal layer of the skin, while others arecaused by changes in the lower dermis.

Previous attempts to improve the visual appearance of skin with knownskin active-ingredients have been shown to have various drawbacks suchas skin irritation and prolonged recovery periods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The inventors discovered that particular sets of ingredients can be usedto treat certain skin conditions ranging from fine lines or wrinkles,inflamed or erythemic skin, oxidative damage, and sking having darkspots (e.g., liver spots, age spots, etc.), melasma, hyperpigmentation,and uneven skin tone.

In one instance, for example, there is disclosed a topical skincomposition comprising a first MMP-1 inhibitor, wherein said firstinhibitor is an aqueous extract from Boehmeria platyphylla, a secondMMP-1 inhibitor, wherein said second inhibitor is an aqueous extractfrom Cratoxylum prunifolium, and a third MMP-1 inhibitor, wherein saidthird inhibitor is an aqueous extract from Excoecaria acerifolia. Thecomposition can be an emulsion, cream, lotion, or solution. Thecomposition can include from about 0.001% to about 5% by weight of saidaqueous extract from Boehmeria platyphylla, from about 0.001% to about5% by weight of said aqueous extract from Cratoxylum prunifolium, andfrom about 0.001% to about 5% by weight of said aqueous extract fromExcoecaria acerifolia (ranges inside and out side of the state range isalso contemplated, e.g., 0.0001%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, andmore). The composition can further include a moisturization agent, anantioxidant, a structuring or thickening agent, and/or an emulsifier(examples of each of these ingredients is provided below). Thecomposition can further include a silicone containing compound and/or asunscreen agent (examples of these ingredients are also provided below).The aqueous extracts can be obtained from the whole plant of Boehmeriaplatyphylla, Cratoxylum prunifolium, and Excoecaria acerifolia,respectively, or from any part of the plant thereof (e.g., root, stem,leaf, flower, seed) at the exclusion of other parts of the plant.Further, and in adition to the extracts being aqueous extracts, theextracts can also be alcoholic extracts, glycolic extracts, or oilextracts. The composition can be a cleanser product, a toner product, amoisturizer product, or a mask product. The first MMP-1 inhibitor canalso be an antioxidant, a TNF-α inhibitor, and a lipoxygenase inhibitor.The second MMP-1 inhibitor can also be an antioxidant. The third MMP-1inhibitor can also be an antioxidant and a lipoxygenase inhibitor.Further, said composition can be used to treat skin by topicallyapllying the composition to skin in need thereof, wherein topicalapplication of said composition treats said skin. The composition caninhibit MMP-1 activity and lipoxygenase activity in said skin. Thecomposition can be applied to a fine line or wrinkle The composition caninhibit TNF-α activity in said skin. The composition can be applied toerythemic or inflamed skin or dry skin or flacky skin or sensitive skin.The composition can reduce oxidative damage in skin cells.

In another instance, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising a first TNF-α inhibitor, wherein said first inhibitor is anaqueous extract from Boehmeria platyphylla, a second TNF-α inhibitor,wherein said second inhibitor is an aqueous extract from Kareliniacaspica, and a third TNF-α inhibitor, wherein said third inhibitor is anaqueous extract from Inula helianthus-aquatica. The composition can bean emulsion, cream, lotion, or solution. The composition can includefrom about 0.001% to about 5% by weight of said aqueous extract fromBoehmeria platyphylla, from about 0.001% to about 5% by weight of saidaqueous extract from Karelinia caspica, and from about 0.001% to about5% by weight of said aqueous extract from Inula helianthus-aquatica(ranges inside and out side of the state range is also contemplated,e.g., 0.0001%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and more). The compositioncan further include a moisturization agent, an antioxidant, astructuring or thickening agent, and/or an emulsifier (examples of eachof these ingredients is provided below). The composition can furtherinclude a silicone containing compound and/or a sunscreen agent(examples of these ingredients are also provided below). The aqueousextracts can be obtained from the whole plant of Boehmeria platyphylla,Karelinia caspica, and Inula helianthus-aquatica, respectively, or fromany part of the plant thereof (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, seed) atthe exclusion of other parts of the plant. Further, and in adition tothe extracts being aqueous extracts, the extracts can also be alcoholicextracts, glycolic extracts, or oil extracts. The composition can be acleanser product, a toner product, a moisturizer product, or a maskproduct. The first TNF-α inhibitor can also be an antioxidant, a MMP-1inhibitor, and a lipoxygenase inhibitor. The second TNF-α inhibitor canalso be an antioxidant. The third TNF-α inhibitor can also be anantioxidant. Further, said composition can be used to treat skin in needthereof by topically applying said composition to skin. The compositioncan inhibit TNF-α activity in said skin. The composition can be appliedto erythemic or inflamed skin or dry skin or flacky skin or sensitiveskin. The composition can inhibit MMP-1 activity and lipoxygenaseactivity in said skin. The composition can be applied to a fine line orwrinkle. The composition can reduce oxidative damage in skin cells.

In still another instance, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising a first antioxidant, wherein said first antioxidant is anaqueous extract from Artabotrys hexapetalus, a second antioxidant,wherein said second antioxidant is an aqueous extract from Sassafrastzumu, and a third antioxidant, wherein said third antioxidant is anaqueous extract from Prunus salicina. The composition can be anemulsion, cream, lotion, or solution. The composition can include fromabout 0.001% to about 5% by weight of said aqueous extract fromArtabotrys hexapetalus, from about 0.001% to about 5% by weight of saidaqueous extract from Sassafras tzumu, and from about 0.001% to about 5%by weight of said aqueous extract from Prunus salicina (ranges insideand out side of the state range is also contemplated, e.g., 0.0001%, 6%,7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and more). The composition can furtherinclude a moisturization agent, an antioxidant, a structuring orthickening agent, and/or an emulsifier (examples of each of theseingredients is provided below). The composition can further include asilicone containing compound and/or a sunscreen agent (examples of theseingredients are also provided below). The aqueous extracts can beobtained from the whole plant of Artabotrys hexapetalus, Sassafrastzumu, and Prunus salicina, respectively, or from any part of the plantthereof (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, seed) at the exclusion of otherparts of the plant. Further, and in adition to the extracts beingaqueous extracts, the extracts can also be alcoholic extracts, glycolicextracts, or oil extracts. The composition can be a cleanser product, atoner product, a moisturizer product, or a mask product. The firstantioxidant can also be a MMP-1 inhibitor and a lipoxygenase inhibitor.The second antioxidant can also be a MMP-1 inhibitor. The thirdantioxidant can also be a MMP-1 inhibitor and a lipoxygenase inhibitor.Said composition can also be used to treat skin by topically applyingthe composition to skin in need thereof. The composition can reduceoxidative damage in skin cells. The composition can inhibit MMP-1activity and lipoxygenase activity in said skin. The composition can beapplied to a fine line or wrinkle.

In a further instance, there is disclosed a topical skin compositioncomprising a tyrosinase inhibitor, wherein said tyrosinase inhibitor isan aqueous extract from Rhododendron moulmainense. The composition canbe an emulsion, cream, lotion, or solution. The composition can furtherinclude a moisturization agent, an antioxidant, a structuring orthickening agent, and/or an emulsifier (examples of each of theseingredients is provided below). The composition can further include asilicone containing compound and/or a sunscreen agent (examples of theseingredients are also provided below). The composition can furthercomprises a MMP-1 and lipoxygenase inhibitor, wherein said MMP-1 andlipoxygenase inhibitor is an aqueous extract from Calliandrahaematocephala, and an antioxidant, wherein said antioxidant is anaqueous extract from Xylosma japonicum. The amount of said extracts(Rhododendron moulmainense, Calliandra haematocephala, and Xylosmajaponicum) can each range from 0.001% to 5% (ranges inside and out sideof the state range is also contemplated, e.g., 0.0001%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%,10%, 15%, 20%, and more). The aqueous extracts can be obtained from thewhole plant or from any part of the plant thereof (e.g., root, stem,leaf, flower, seed) at the exclusion of other parts of the plant.Further, and in adition to the extracts being aqueous extracts, theextracts can also be alcoholic extracts, glycolic extracts, or oilextracts. The composition can be a cleanser product, a toner product, amoisturizer product, or a mask product. The composition can alsoexclude/not include any other tyrosinase inhibitors or skin lighteningagents (e.g., hydroquinone or other known skin lightening agents). Saidcompositions can be used to lightn skin, treat uneven skin tone, reducethe appearance of age spots, freckles, liver spots, dark spots, sunspots, treat melasmic skin, treat hyperpigemented skin, etc. Thecomposition can inhibit tyrosinase activity in said skin.

In addition to the above combinations, the inventors also discoveredthat a wide variety of plants and extracts thereof have therapeuticbenefits, including individual plants and extrats. These plants andextracts thereof are from Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunuscerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylumprunifolium. In particular aspects, compositions of the presentinvention can include any one of, any combination of, all of, or atleast 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 of said plants orextracts thereof. The plant part can be the whole plant or part of theplant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem,root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). The extract can be from the wholeplant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower,seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). The extract canbe an aqueous extract or a non-aqueous extract. The extract can beextracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol, ethanol propanol, butanol,etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc. The extracts can be included incompositions such as topical skin compositions, edible compositions,injectible compositions, oral compositions, pharmaceutical compositions,hair care compositions, etc. The composition can include 0.01% to 20% byweight of said plant, plant part, and/or extract thereof (or 0.1, 0.1,0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 99%,or more or any integer or range therein).

In particular aspects, the composition is formulated as topical skincomposition. The composition can have a dermatologically acceptablevehicle or carrier for the plant, plant part, or extract thereof. Thecomposition can further include a moisturizing agent or a humectant, asurfactant, a silicone containing compounds, a UV agent, an oil, and/orother ingredients identified in this specification or those known in theart. The composition can be a lotion, cream, gel, serum, emulsion (e.g.,oil-in-water, water-in-oil, silicone-in-water, water-in-silicone,water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water, oil-in-water-in-oil,oil-in-water-in-silicone, etc.), solutions (e.g., aqueous orhydro-alcoholic solutions), anhydrous bases (e.g., lipstick or apowder), ointments, milk, paste, aerosol, solid forms, eye jellies, etc.The composition can be in powdered form (e.g., dried, lyophilized,particulate, etc.). The composition can be formulated for topical skinapplication at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or more times a day duringuse. In other aspects of the present invention, compositions can bestorage stable or color stable, or both. It is also contemplated thatthe viscosity of the composition can be selected to achieve a desiredresult, e.g., depending on the type of composition desired, theviscosity of such composition can be from about 1 cps to well over 1million cps or any range or integer derivable therein (e.g., 2 cps, 3,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 200, 300,400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000,8000, 9000, 10000, 20000, 30000, 40000, 50000, 60000, 70000, 80000,90000, 100000, 200000, 300000, 400000, 500000, 600000, 700000, 800000,900000, 1000000, 2000000, 3000000, 4000000, 5000000, 10000000, cps,etc., as measured on a Brookfield Viscometer using a TC spindle at 2.5rpm at 25° C.).

The compositions of the present invention can also be modified to have adesired oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) value. In certainnon-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present invention or theplant, plant parts, or extracts thereof identified throughout thisspecification can be modified to have an ORAC value per mg of at leastabout 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 70,80, 90, 95, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 2000,3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000, 8000, 9000, 10000, 15000, 20000, 30000,50000, 100000 or more or any range derivable therein.

The compositions in non-limiting aspects can have a pH of about 6 toabout 9. In other aspects, the pH can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,11, 12, 13, or 14. The compositions can include a triglyceride.Non-limiting examples include small, medium, and large chaintriglycerides. In certain aspects, the triglyceride is a medium chaintriglyceride (e.g., caprylic capric triglyceride). The compositions canalso include preservatives. Non-limiting examples of preservativesinclude methylparaben, propylparaben, or a mixture of methylparaben andpropylparaben.

Compositions of the present invention can have UVA and UVB absorptionproperties. The compositions can have an sun protection factor (SPF) of2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45,50, 55, 60, or more, or any integer or derivative therein. Thecompositions can be sunscreen lotions, sprays, or creams.

The compositions of the present invention can also include any one of,any combination of, or all of the following additional ingredients:water, a chelating agent, a moisturizing agent, a preservative, athickening agent, a silicone containing compound, an essential oil, astructuring agent, a vitamin, a pharmaceutical ingredient, or anantioxidant, or any combination of such ingredients or mixtures of suchingredients. In certain aspects, the composition can include at leasttwo, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, or all of theseadditional ingredients identified in the previous sentence. Non-limitingexamples of these additional ingredients are identified throughout thisspecification and are incorporated into this section by reference. Theamounts of such ingredients can range from 0.0001% to 99.9% by weight orvolume of the composition, or any integer or range in between asdisclosed in other sections of this specification, which areincorporated into this paragraph by reference.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin carecomposition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementionedplants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof in combination with any oneof, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water;glycerin; butylene glycol; propylene glycol; phenoxyethanol; a chelatingagent (e.g., EDTA, disodium EDTA, trisodium EDTA, EGTA, disodium EGTA,trisodium EGTA, citric acid, phosphoric acid, succinic acid, etc.);steareth-20; chlorhexidine diglunonate; potassium sorbate; and/or apreservative (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben,ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, etc.). In particular aspects, thecomposition can further include any one of, any combination of, or allof the following additional ingredients: alcohol; denatured alcohol;glyceryl stearate; dimethicone; PEG-100 stearate; capryl glycol;triethanolamine; maltodextrin; sorbic acid; ethylene brassylate; methyllinalool; isobutyl methyl tetrahydropyranol; ethylhexylglycerin; and/orhexylene glycol. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer orrange derivable therein as explained in other portions of thisspecification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference.In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to80% by weight of water.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin carecomposition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementionedplants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof in combination with any oneof, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water;dimethicone; triethanolamine; phenonip; betaine; a chelating agent(e.g., EDTA, disodium EDTA, trisodium EDTA, EGTA, disodium EGTA,trisodium EGTA, citric acid, phosphoric acid, succinic acid, etc.);tocopheryl acetate; and/or prodew 400. In particular aspects, thecomposition can further include any one of, any combination of, or allof the following additional ingredients: propylene glycol; isododecane;polyacrylamide/C13-C14 isoparaffin/laureth 7 mixture; PEG-12dimethicone; and/or ethylhexyl palmitate. The concentrations of theseingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of thecomposition or any integer or range derivable therein as explained inother portions of this specification which are incorporated into thisparagraph by reference. In particular aspects, the concentration ofwater can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin carecomposition that includes an one of or combination of the aforementionedplants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof in combination with any oneof, any combination of, or all of the following ingredients: water;glycerin; pentylene glycol; capryl glycol; disodium EDTA;capric/caprylic triglyceride; shea butter; squalane; cetyl alcohol;dimethicone; ceramide II; stearic acid; a mixture of glyceryl stearateand PEG 100 stearate; or a mixture of acrylamide/acryloyl dimethyltaurate copolymer, isohexadecane, and polysorbate 80. The concentrationsof these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volumeof the composition or any integer or range derivable therein asexplained in other portions of this specification which are incorporatedinto this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects, theconcentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight of water.The ratio of water to glycerin can be from about 7:1 to 9:1 based on thetotal weight of the composition. The ratio of glycerin to pentyleneglycol can be from about 1:1 to about 2:1 based on the total weight ofthe composition.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin carecomposition that includes any one of or combination of theaforementioned plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof incombination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the followingingredients: water; glycerin; capryl glycol; capryl glycol; disodiumEDTA; petrolatum; squalane; cetyl alcohol; a mixture of glycerylstearate and PEG 100 stearate; dimethicone; or a mixture ofacrylamide/acryloyl dimethyl taurate copolymer, isohexadecane, andpolysorbate 80. The concentrations of these ingredients can range from0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or any integer orrange derivable therein as explained in other portions of thisspecification which are incorporated into this paragraph by reference.In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be at least 35% to80% by weight of water. The ratio of water to glycerin can be from about12:1 to 16:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio ofglycerin to pentylene glycol can be from about 0.5:1 to about 1.5:1based on the total weight of the composition.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin carecomposition that includes any one of or combination of theaforementioned plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof incombination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the followingingredients: water; xanthan gum; disodium EDTA; pentylene glycol; caprylglycol; acrylate C10-30 acrylate cross polymer; triethanolamine;PVP/hexadecene copolymer; C12-15 alkyl benzoate; sorbitan isostearate;or a sunscreen agent. The concentrations of these ingredients can rangefrom 0.00001 to 99% by weight or volume of the composition or anyinteger or range derivable therein as explained in other portions ofthis specification which are incorporated into this paragraph byreference. In particular aspects, the concentration of water can be atleast 35% to 80% by weight of water. The ratio of water to C12-15 alkylbenzoate can be from about 2:1 to 3:1 based on the total weight of thecomposition. The ratio of water to pentylene glycol can be from about9:1 to about 11:1 based on the total weight of the composition.

In another embodiment, there is disclosed a topical skin carecomposition that includes any one of or combination of theaforementioned plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof incombination with any one of, any combination of, or all of the followingingredients: water; disodium EDTA; citric acid; pentylene glycol; caprylglycol; sodium cocoamphodiacetate; or sodium methyl cocoyl taurate. Theconcentrations of these ingredients can range from 0.00001 to 99% byweight or volume of the composition or any integer or range derivabletherein as explained in other portions of this specification which areincorporated into this paragraph by reference. In particular aspects,the concentration of water can be at least 35% to 80% by weight ofwater. The ratio of water to pentylene glycol can be from about 12:1 to14:1 based on the total weight of the composition. The ratio of water tosodium cocoamphodiacetate can be from about 8:1 to about 11:1 based onthe total weight of the composition. The ratio of water to sodium methylcocoyl taurate can be from about 2:1 to about 4:1 based on the totalweight of the composition. The ratio of sodium methyl cocoyl taurate tosodium cocoamphodiacetate can be from about 2:1 to about 4:1 based onthe total weight of the composition.

Also disclosed is an extract from Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum,Prunus cerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafrastzumu, Inula helianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passifloracaerulea, Galium aparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea,Sageretia rugosa, Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllumoldhamii, Cuscuta chinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius,Euphorbia trigona, Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia,Dianthus chinensis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunussalicina, Solanum coagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendronmoulmainense, Spatholobus suberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscussyriacus, Lonicera calcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis,Antidesma venosum, Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettiavelutina, Themeda japonica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photiniaglomerate, Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica,Bauhinia touranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/orCratoxylum prunifolium. The extract can be from the whole plant or partof the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf,stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.), or mixtures from differentparts of the plant. The extract can be an aqueous extract or anon-aqueous extract. The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g.,methanol, ethanol propanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc.The extracts can be included in a composition. The composition caninclude 0.01% to 20% by weight of said plant, plant part, and/or extractthereof (or 0.1, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 30, 40,50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 99%, or more or any integer or range therein). Thecomposition can include any one of, any combination of, all of, or atleast 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 of said plants,plant parts, or extracts thereof. The composition can be an ediblecomposition. The composition can take the form of a pill, liquid gelcap, tablet, or powder. The composition can be an injectable solution(e.g., for intravenous delivery). The composition can be in the form ofa neutraceutical. The composition can be a topical skin composition. Thecomposition can be in aerosolized form. The extract can be an aqueous ora non-aqueous extract. The aqueous extract can include an alcohol, aglycol, water and/or water. Non-aqueous extract can include a fat or anoil.

One aspect of the present invention concerns a method of treating orpreventing a skin condition comprising topically applying any one of thecompositions disclosed in this specification to skin having a skincondition. As noted throughout, the composition can include a plant,plant part, or extract thereof from Michelia magnifica, Xylosmajaponicum, Prunus cerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox,Sassafras tzumu, Inula helianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri,Passiflora caerulea, Galium aparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhouniacoccinea, Sageretia rugosa, Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus,Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscuta chinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthusparvifolius, Euphorbia trigona, Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecariaacerifolia, Dianthus chinensis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoidespeltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanum coagulans, Elaeis guineensis,Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobus suberectus, Artabotryshexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Lonicera calcarata, Hydnocarpushainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum, Acacia pennata ssp.Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themeda japonica, Dalbergiahancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate, Hippophae rhamnoides,Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhinia touranensis, Eriobotryajaponicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylum prunifolium. Thecomposition can include any one of, any combination of, all of, or atleast 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 of said plants,plant parts, and/or extracts thereof. The plant part can be the wholeplant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower,seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). The extract canbe from the whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap,stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark,etc.). The extract can be an aqueous extract or a non-aqueous extract.The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol, ethanolpropanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc. The composition caninclude a dermatoligically acceptable vehicle. Non-limiting examples ofskin conditions that can be treated and/or prevented with thecompositions of the present invention include dry skin, itchy skin,flaky skin, inflamed skin, erythemic skin, pain associated witherythemic skin, sensitive skin, pruritus, spider veins, lentigo, agespots, senile purpura, keratosis, melasma, blotches, fine lines orwrinkles, nodules, sun damaged skin, dermatitis (including, but notlimited to seborrheic dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, contactdermatitis, atopic dermatitis, exfoliative dermatitis, perioraldermatitis, and stasis dermatitis), psoriasis, folliculitis, rosacea,acne, postules, nodules, whiteheads, blackheads, impetigo, erysipelas,erythrasma, eczema, sun burns, burned skin, open wounds,skin-inflammatory skin conditions, etc. In certain non-limiting aspects,the skin condition can be caused by exposure to UV light, age,irradiation, chronic sun exposure, environmental pollutants, airpollution, wind, cold, heat, chemicals, disease pathologies, smoking, orlack of nutrition. The skin can be facial skin or non-facial skin (e.g.,arms, legs, hands, chest, back, feet, etc.). The method can furthercomprise identifying a person in need of skin treatment. The person canbe a male or female. The age of the person can be at least 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75,80, 85, 90, 95, or more years old, or any range derivable therein. Themethod can also include topically applying an amount effective to:increase the stratum corneum turnover rate of the skin; increasecollagen synthesis in fibroblasts; increase cellular anti-oxidantdefense mechanisms (e.g., exogenous additions of anti-oxidants canbolster, replenish, or prevent the loss of cellular antioxidants such ascatalase and glutathione in skin cells (e.g., keratinocytes,melanocytes, langerhans cells, etc.) which will reduce or preventoxidative damage to the skin, cellular, proteins, and lipids); inhibitmelanin production in melanocytes; reduce or prevent oxidative damage toskin (including reducing the amount lipid peroxides and/or proteinoxidation in the skin).

In yet another embodiment, the extracts disclosed throughout thisspecification can be used treat skin conditions or diseases associatedwith oxidation of skin cells (e.g., extracts that have antioxidativeproperties), tyrosinase activity (e.g., extracts that have the abilityto modify or otherwise inhibt tyrosinase activity in skin cells), TNF-αactivity (e.g., extracts that have the ability to modify or otherwiseinhibit TNF-α activity), lipoxygenase activity (e.g., extracts that havethe ability to modify or otherwise inhibit lipoxygenase activity),and/or MMP-1 activity (e.g., extracts that have the ability to modify orotherwise inhibit MMP-1 activity). The data in the Examples and theinformation provided in the Detailed Description concerning the extractsprovide information on the antioxidant, TNF-α inhibition, tyrosinaseinhibition, lipoxygenase inhibition, and MMP-1 inhibition abilities ofsaid extracts. In particular embodiments, extracts that have antioxidantproperties can be used to treat, prevent, or reduce oxidative damage toskin cells from external environmental factors (e.g., pollution, sun,chemicals, etc.). Extracts having TNF-α inhibition properties can beused to reduce TNF-a activity in skin cells having increased TNF-αactivity (e.g., inflamed skin, red skin, erythemic skin, sun burnedskin, burned skin, or other skin-related diseases that are alsoinflammatory diseases). Extracts having tyrosinase inhibiton propertiescan be used to reduce or otherwise prevent tyrosinase production oractivity in skin cells, which can be used to treat hyperpigmented skin,uneven skin, melasmic skin, dark spots, aged spots, sun spots, blotchyskin, etc. Extracts having MMP-1 inhibition properties can be used tomaintain or prevent collagen breakdown in skin cells and can be used totreat or prevent fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, loose skin, etc.

In one embodiment of the present invention there is disclosed a methodof reducing the appearance of symptoms associated with erythema (e.g.,erythemic skin, sensitive skin, inflamed skin) comprising topicallyapplying any one of the compositions of the present invention to skin inneed thereof. Erythema can be caused by skin sunburn, electricaltreatments of skin, skin burns, contact allergies, systemic allergies,skin toxicity, exercise, insect stings, bacterial infection, viralinfection, fungal infection, protozoa infection, massage, windburn, etc.As noted throughout, the composition can include a plant, plant part, orextract thereof from Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunuscerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylumprunifolium. The composition can include any one of, any combination of,all of, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 ofsaid plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof. The plant part can bethe whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf,flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). Theextract can be from the whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root,bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed,sap, bark, etc.). The extract can be an aqueous extract or a non-aqueousextract. The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol,ethanol propanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc.

In still another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed amethod of treating dry, flaky, or itchy skin or reducing the appearanceof uneven skin tone comprising topically applying any one of thecompositions disclosed in this specification to dry, flaky, or itchyskin or to skin having an uneven skin tone. As noted throughout, thecomposition can include a plant, plant part, or extract thereof fromMichelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunus cerasifera, Nyssasinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylumprunifolium. The composition can include any one of, any combination of,all of, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 ofsaid plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof. The plant part can bethe whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf,flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). Theextract can be from the whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root,bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed,sap, bark, etc.). The extract can be an aqueous extract or a non-aqueousextract. The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol,ethanol propanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc.

Also disclosed is a method of reducing the appearance of fine lines orwrinkles comprising topically applying any one of the compositionsdisclosed in this specification to skin having fine lines or wrinkles Asnoted throughout, the composition can include a plant, plant part, orextract thereof from Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunuscerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylumprunifolium. The composition can include any one of, any combination of,all of, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 ofsaid plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof. The plant part can bethe whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf,flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). Theextract can be from the whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root,bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed,sap, bark, etc.). The extract can be an aqueous extract or a non-aqueousextract. The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol,ethanol propanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc.

In certain embodiments, compositions of the present invention candecrease the amount of internal oxidation and/or external oxidativedamage in a cell. In other aspects, the compositions can increasecollagen synthesis in a cell. The compositions can also reduce skininflammation, such as by reducing inflammatory cytokine production in acell. Non-limiting examples of such cells include human epidermalkeratinocyte, human fibroblast dermal cell, human melanocytes, threedimensional human cell-derived in vitro tissue equivalents comprisinghuman keratinocytes, human fibroblasts, or human melanocytes, or anycombination thereof (e.g., combination of human keratinocytes and humanfibroblasts or a combination of human keratinocytes and humanmelanocytes).

Also disclosed is a method of treating hyperpigmentation comprisingapplying the compositions of the present invention to the skin. Themethod can also comprise identifying a person in need of treatinghyperpigmentation and applying the composition to a portion of the skinexhibiting hyperpigmentation. Additional methods contemplated by theinventors include methods for reducing the appearance of an age spot, askin discoloration, or a freckle, reducing or preventing the appearanceof fine lines or wrinkles in skin, or increasing the firmness of skin byapplying the compositions of the present invention to skin in need ofsuch treatment. As noted throughout, the composition can include aplant, plant part, or extract thereof from Michelia magnifica, Xylosmajaponicum, Prunus cerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox,Sassafras tzumu, Inula helianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri,Passiflora caerulea, Galium aparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhouniacoccinea, Sageretia rugosa, Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus,Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscuta chinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthusparvifolius, Euphorbia trigona, Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecariaacerifolia, Dianthus chinensis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoidespeltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanum coagulans, Elaeis guineensis,Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobus suberectus, Artabotryshexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Lonicera calcarata, Hydnocarpushainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum, Acacia pennata ssp.Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themeda japonica, Dalbergiahancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate, Hippophae rhamnoides,Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhinia touranensis, Eriobotryajaponicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylum prunifolium. Thecomposition can include any one of, any combination of, all of, or atleast 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19,20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37,38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 of said plants,plant parts, and/or extracts thereof. The plant part can be the wholeplant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower,seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). The extract canbe from the whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap,stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark,etc.). The extract can be an aqueous extract or a non-aqueous extract.The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol, ethanolpropanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc.

In yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed amethod of treating or preventing a wide variety of diseases comprisingadministering to a patient in need of treatment any one of thecompositions of the present invention. As noted throughout, thecomposition can include a plant, plant part, or extract thereof fromMichelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunus cerasifera, Nyssasinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylumprunifolium. The composition can include any one of, any combination of,all of, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 ofsaid plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof. The plant part can bethe whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf,flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). Theextract can be from the whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root,bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed,sap, bark, etc.). The extract can be an aqueous extract or a non-aqueousextract. The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol,ethanol propanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc. Thecomposition can be formulated as a topical composition, an ingestiblecomposition, an injectible composition, an aerosolized composition, etc.Non-limiting examples of diseases that can be treated or prevented withsuch compositions include AIDS, autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoidarthritis, multiple sclerosis, diabetes—insulin-dependent andnon-independent, systemic lupus erythematosus and Graves disease),cancer (e.g., malignant, benign, metastatic, precancer), cardiovasculardiseases (e.g., heart disease or coronary artery disease,stroke—ischemic and hemorrhagic, and rheumatic heart disease), diseasesof the nervous system, and infection by pathogenic microorganisms (e.g.,Athlete's Foot, Chickenpox, Common cold, Diarrheal diseases, Flu,Genital herpes, Malaria, Meningitis, Pneumonia, Sinusitis, Skindiseases, Strep throat, Tuberculosis, Urinary tract infections, Vaginalinfections, Viral hepatitis), inflammation (e.g., allergy, asthma),prion diseases (e.g., CJD, kuru, GSS, FFI), obesity, etc.

Also disclosed is a method thickening hair or treating or preventinghair loss on the scalp (e.g., male-pattern baldness, female-patternbaldness, cicatricial alopecia, alopecia greata telogen effluvium,traction alopecia, anagen effluvium), eyebrows, or eyelashes comprisingadministering to a patient in need of any such treatment any one of thecompositions of the present invention. As noted throughout, thecomposition can include a plant, plant part, or extract thereof fromMichelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunus cerasifera, Nyssasinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylumprunifolium The composition can include any one of, any combination of,all of, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50 ofsaid plants, plant parts, and/or extracts thereof. The plant part can bethe whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root, bark, sap, stem, leaf,flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed, sap, bark, etc.). Theextract can be from the whole plant or part of the plant (e.g., root,bark, sap, stem, leaf, flower, seed, leaf, stem, root, flower, seed,sap, bark, etc.). The extract can be an aqueous extract or a non-aqueousextract. The extract can be extracted with alcohol (e.g., methanol,ethanol propanol, butanol, etc.), glycols, oils, water, etc. Thecomposition can be formulated as a topical composition, an ingestiblecomposition, an injectible composition, an aerosolized composition, afoam based composition etc. An assay that can be used to test acomposition's ability to thicken hair or treat or prevent hair loss isto apply test composition to a targeted area and measure new hair growthor rate of hair loss when compared with a controled area that is notreceiving the test composition. The method can also include combiningany one of the compositions of the present invention with known hairloss or hair thickening treatnments (e.g., 5-a reductase inhibitors(e.g., finasteride, dutasteride, saw palmetto extract etc.),vasodilators (e.g., minoxidil), ketoconazole, hair transplantationprocedures, hair multiplication procedures, laser therapy, caffeine,etc.).

In one particular non-limiting embodiment, the extract or extracts usedin any one of the treatment methods described above and throughout thisspecification and claims is prepared in accordance with the proceduresdescribed in FIG. 1. The contens of FIG. 1 are incorporated byreference.

Multipurpose compositions are also contemplated. For instance,compositions that can have antioxidant properties, inhibit or reducelipoxygenase activity, inhibit or reduce tyrosinase activity, inhibit orreduce TNF-α activity, and/or inhibition or reduce MMP-1 activity, orany 2, 3, 4, or all of such properties is contemplated. Suchcompositions can be prepared in view of the information provided in theDetailed Description and Examples sections of this specification, whichexplains the abilities of the extracts.

It is also contemplated that the compositions disclosed throughout thisspecification can be used as a leave-on or rinse-off composition. By wayof example, a leave-on composition can be one that is topically appliedto skin and remains on the skin for a period of time (e.g., at least 5,6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, or 30 minutes, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8,9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 or 24 hours,or over night or throughout the day). Alternatively, a rinse-offcomposition can be a product that is intended to be applied to the skinand then removed or rinsed from the skin (e.g., with water) within aperiod of time such as less than 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1 minute. An example ofa rinse of composition can be a skin cleanser, shampoo, conditioner, orsoap. An example of a leave-on composition can be a skin moisturizer,sunscreen, mask, overnight cream, or a day cream.

The compositions of the present invention can also take the form oftopically spreadable compositions, sprayable compositions, aerosolizedcompositions, injectible compositions, edible compositions, compositiosnin tablet, gel cap, or pill form. The extract used within thecompositions and methods of the present invention can be aqueousextracts, alcoholic extracts, glycolic extracts, oil extracts, or anycombination thereof. The compositions can be in powedered form, liquidform, or aerosolized form. The extracts can prepared in accordance withthe process described in FIG. 1.

Kits that include the compositions of the present invention are alsocontemplated. In certain embodiments, the composition is comprised in acontainer. The container can be a bottle, dispenser, or package. Thecontainer can dispense a pre-determined amount of the composition. Incertain aspects, the compositions is dispensed in a spray, dollop, orliquid. The container can include indicia on its surface. The indiciacan be a word, an abbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

Also contemplated is a product comprising a composition of the presentinvention. In non-limiting aspects, the product can be a cosmeticproduct. The cosmetic product can be those described in other sectionsof this specification or those known to a person of skill in the art.Non-limiting examples of products include a moisturizer, a cream, alotion, a skin softener, a foundation, a night cream, a lipstick, acleanser, a toner, a sunscreen, a mask, an anti-aging product, adeodorant, an antiperspirant, a perfume, a cologne, etc.

It is also contemplated that compositions of the present invention canbe included into food-based products (e.g., beverages, fortified water,energy drinks, nutritional drinks, solid foods, vitamins, supplements,etc.) and pharmaceutical products (e.g., pills, tablets, gel capsules,injectible solutions, drugs, etc.). “Supplements” can include vitamins,minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes andmetabolites. Such supplements are suitable for oral consumption and canbe administered orally.

Further, the contents of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/869,352, filedAug. 26, 2010, International Application No. PCT/US10/46791, filed Aug.26, 2010, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/237,087, filed Aug.26, 2009 are incorporated by reference into the present application.

It is contemplated that any embodiment discussed in this specificationcan be implemented with respect to any method or composition of theinvention, and vice versa. Furthermore, compositions of the inventioncan be used to achieve methods of the invention.

In one embodiment, the topical skin compositions of the currentinvention are pharmaceutically elegant. “Pharmaceutically elegant”describes a composition that has particular tactile properties whichfeel pleasant on the skin (e.g., compositions that are not too watery orgreasy, compositions that have a silky texture, compositions that arenon-tacky or sticky, etc.). Pharmaceutically elegant can also relate tothe creaminess or lubricity properties of the composition or to themoisture retaining properties of the composition.

“Keratinous tissue” includes keratin-containing layers disposed as theoutermost protective covering of mammals and includes, but is notlimited to, skin, hair and nails.

“Topical application” means to apply or spread a composition onto thesurface of keratinous tissue. “Topical skin composition” includescompositions suitable for topical application on keratinous tissue. Suchcompositions are typically dermatologically-acceptable in that they donot have undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, allergicresponse, and the like, when applied to skin. Topical skin carecompositions of the present invention can have a selected viscosity toavoid significant dripping or pooling after application to skin.

The term “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to asunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limitingembodiment the terms are defined to be within 10%, preferably within 5%,more preferably within 1%, and most preferably within 0.5%.

The terms “inhibiting” or “reducing” or any variation of these terms,when used in the claims and/or the specification includes any measurabledecrease or complete inhibition to achieve a desired result.

The term “effective,” as that term is used in the specification and/orclaims, means adequate to accomplish a desired, expected, or intendedresult.

The words “comprising” (and any form of comprising, such as “comprise”and “comprises”), “having” (and any form of having, such as “have” and“has”), “including” (and any form of including, such as “includes” and“include”) or “containing” (and any form of containing, such as“contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not excludeadditional, unrecited elements or method steps.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description. It should beunderstood, however, that the detailed description and the examples,while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by wayof illustration only. Additionally, it is contemplated that changes andmodifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will becomeapparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following drawings form part of the present specification and areincluded to further demonstrate certain aspects of the presentinvention. The invention may be better understood by reference to one ormore of these drawings in combination with the detailed description ofspecific embodiments presented below.

FIG. 1. Extraction process used to obtain extracts from each of thefollowing plants (note that although the whole plant was used in theextract process for each of the Extracts to obtain the data in theExamples, plant parts are also contemplated and can be used by theprocess described in FIG. 1—e.g., stem, bark, root, flower, seed, fruit,leaf, sap etc.): Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunuscerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and Cratoxylumprunifolium.

DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

In today's image conscious society, people are continually looking for aproduct that can improve the visual appearance of their skin. Oftentimes, aged skin, uneven skin tone, or skin damaged by environmentalfactors such as UV light, chronic sun exposure, environmentalpollutants, chemicals, disease pathologies, or smoking, is associatedwith unattractive skin. Previous attempts to improve the visualappearance of skin has been shown to have various drawbacks such as skinirritation and prolonged recovery periods.

The present invention is an effective alternative to the use ofcompositions and ingredients currently used to treat aged skin,environmentally-damaged skin, uneven skin tone, and other skinconditions. As noted above, particular combinations of said extractshave been discovered to work well with particular skin conditions.Further, the individual use of extracts disclosed in this specificationhave also been discovered to treat skin. The following includesinformation about the extracts disclosed in this specification andpotential characteristics in formulating said extracts.

A. Plants and Extracts Thereof

The plants and extracts thereof of can be obtained by standardcultivation and extraction techniques known to those having ordinaryskill in the art. Non-limiting examples of such techniques are providedbelow, in the Examples, and in FIG. 1. In addition, these extracts canbe obtained through third parties such as Kunming Institute of Botany,Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yunnan, CHINA (“KIB”) (e.g., the plantmaterial used in the Examples was obtained from KIB.

For instance, a person of ordinary skill in the art would be able toisolate any one of the extracts identified below from parts of thecorresponding plant by using any suitable method known in the art. Inone non-limiting example, the plant (or any part of the plant such asthe leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds,seed pods, sap, whole plant, etc.) can be disrupted by mechanical meanswhich results in a puree. The puree is then processed to besubstantially free of impurities or undesired solids. The puree can thenbe poured into a shallow vessel and quickly exposed to low temperature,i.e., flash frozen, for example at −20° C. or lower, preferably under avacuum for removal of water content (lyophilization). The resultantextract can then be used in the compositions of the present invention.

In other aspects, aqueous, alcoholic, or oil based extractiontechniques, or combinations thereof, can be used on the whole plant orany part thereof of (e.g., leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers orflower buds, seeds, seed pods, sap, whole plant, etc.) to produce anextract. In such a process, the desired part of the plant or the wholeplant is crushed up (e.g., blender) and then subjected to a desiredsolvent (e.g., water, alcohol, water/alcohol, or oil based solvents) toobtain the desired extract. The extract can then be stored in liquidform, lyophilized, or subject to further processing techniques (e.g.,heating, cooling, etc.). Extraction processes are well-known to thosehaving ordinary skill in the extract field (e.g., maceration, infusion,percolation, digestion, decoction, hot continuous extraction,aqueous-alcoholic extract, counter current extract, microwave assistedextraction, ultrasound extraction, supercritical fluid extracts,phytonic extract (e.g., with hydro-fluoro-carbon solvents), etc.

General information about the plants are provided below.

1. Michelia magnifica

Michelia magnifica is a tree that can reach 15 meters in height. Itstwigs are approximately 0.7 to 1 cm in diameter, and the leaf blade hasan oblong-elliptic to elliptic shape. It is capable of producing flowersand seeds. This plant is native to China and can be found in YunnanChina.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Michelia magnifica haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. of thedifferent portions of Michelia magnifica can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

2. Xylosma japonicum

Xylosma japonicum is an evergreen tree that can reach 25 meters inheight. It is capable of producing flowers and seeds. It is native toEastern Asian countries ranging from China, Korea, and Japan.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Xylosma japonicum haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. Theinventors have discovered that extracts of Oenothera rosea have severalbiological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Non-limitingexamples of some of these biological activities include antioxidantproperties and the ability to inhibit TNF-α activity. All of thedifferent portions of Xylosma japonicum can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

3. Prunus cerasifera

Prunus cerasifera, also known as cherry plum or myrobalan plum, is alarge shrub or small deciduous tree that can reach 6-15 meters inheight. Its leaves are 4 to 6 centimeters long and is capable ofproducing flowers, seeds, and fruits. It is native to Europe and Asia(e.g., China).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Prunus cerasifera haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Prunus cerasifera can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

4. Nyssa sinensis

Nyssa sinensis is a deciduous tree that can reach 30-50 feet in height.Its leaves are 3 to 6 inches in length. It is capable of producingflowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Nyssa sinensis haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Nyssa sinensis can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

5. Chimonanthus praecox

Chimonanthus praecox is a large shrub or small tree that can reach 2-13meters in height. Its leaves are 7-20 cm in length. It is capable ofproducing flowers, fruit, and seeds. This plant is native throughoutChina.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Chimonanthus praecox haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Chimonanthus praecox can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

6. Sassafras tzumu

Sassafras tzumu is a deciduous tree that can reach 9-18 meters inheight. It has a smooth, orange-brown, bark. Its leaves can range from7-20 cm in length and is capable of producing flowers, fruit, and seeds.This plant is native to central and southwestern China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of C Sassafras tzumu haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Sassafras tzumu can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

7. Inula helianthus-aquatica

Inula helianthus-aquatica is a flowering herb that is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Inula helianthus-aquaticahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit TNF-α activity. All ofthe different portions of Inula helianthus-aquatica can be used toobtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include itsleaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap,and the entire plant.

8. Capparis bodinieri

Capparis bodinieri is flowering shrub that can reach 5-8 meters inheight. This plant is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Capparis bodinieri haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Capparis bodinieri can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

9. Passiflora caerulea

Passiflora caerulea, also known as blue passion flower, is a woody vinethat can reach 15-20 meters in height. This vine products leaves,flowers and orange colored fruit with red pulp. Seeds are surrounded bythe red pulp. It is native to South America (e.g., Argentina, Paraguay,Uruguay, and Brazil).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Passiflora caerulea haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Passiflora caerulea can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

10. Galium aparine

Galium aparine, also known as Cleavers, CLivers, Goosegrass, Stickyweed,Stickyleaf, Catchweed, or Robin-Run-the-Hedge, is an herb that can reach1-1.5 meters in height. It has leaves and is capable of producingflowers, fruits, and seeds. It is native to North America and Eurasia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Galium aparine haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Galium aparine can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

11. Boehmeria platyphylla

Boehmeria platyphylla is a shrub that can reach 5 meters in height. Ithas soft-wooded branches and green leaves. It is native to Western andCentral African countries.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Boehmeria platyphyllahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit TNF-α activity,lipoxygenase activity, and MMP-1 activity. All of the different portionsof Boehmeria platyphylla can be used to obtain the correspondingextract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots,sap, and the entire plant.

12. Colquhounia coccinea

Colquhounia coccinea is an evergreen shrub that can reach 3 meters inheight. It has large soft leaves and orange flowers. The leaves are 15centimeters in length. This shrub is capable of producing fruit andseeds. It is native to the Himalayas and southwestern China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Colquhounia coccinea haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Colquhounia coccinea can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

13. Sageretia rugosa

Sageretia rugosa is a shrub that has small green leaves approximately1.5-4 centimeters in length. It is capable of producing flowers, fruits,and seeds. This plant is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Sageretia rugosa haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Sageretia rugosa can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

14. Jasminum stephanense

Jasminum stephanense is a deciduous vine that is can reach 8 meters inheight. It is capable of producing flowers and seeds. This plant isnative to southwestern China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Jasminum stephanense haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties. All of the different portions of Jasminumstephanense can be used to obtain the corresponding extract.Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit,flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

15. Antirrhinum majus

Antirrhinum majus, oftentimes referred to as Snapdragon, is a flowingplant that can reach 0.5-1 meters in height. The leaves are spirallyarranged and can range from 1-7 centimeters in length. It is capable ofproducing flowers, fruits, and seeds. This plant is native to theMediterranean region (e.g., Morroco and Portugal north to southernFrance, and east to Turkey and Syria).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Antirrhinum majus haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties. All of the different portions of Antirrhinummajus can be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limitingexamples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers orflower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

16. Daphniphyllum oldhamii

Daphniphyllum oldhamii is a small tree or shrub that can reach 4 to 15meters in height. It has dark brown and slender branches as well asslender leaf blades. It is capable of producing flowers, fruits, andseeds. It is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Daphniphyllum oldhamiihave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties. All of the different portions of Daphniphyllumoldhamii can be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limitingexamples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers orflower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

17. Cuscuta chinensis

Cuscuta chinensis, also known as Chinese dodder, is an herb that canproduce flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Cuscuta chinensis haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties. All of the different portions of Cuscutachinensis can be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limitingexamples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers orflower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

18. Salix variegate

Salix variegate is a small tree or large shrub that can produce whitefloweres. It is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Salix variegate haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Salix variegate can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

19. Osmanthus parvifolius

Osmanthus parvifolius is a tree that is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Osmanthus parvifoliushave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties. All of the different portions of Osmanthusparvifolius can be used to obtain the corresponding extract.Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit,flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

20. Euphorbia trigona

Euphorbia trigona, also known as the African Milk Tree, is a succulentthat can reach up to 1.8 meters in height. It has an elongated shapewith spines or needles along its shaft. It is capable of producingleafs, which can result in a stem. It is native to topical westernAfrican countries.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Euphorbia trigona haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Euphorbia trigona can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

21. Calliandra haematocephala

Calliandra haematocephala, also known as the Red Powder Puff, is a shrubthat can reach 1-3 meters in height. It produces green leaves andflowers. The flowers are typically red and are shaped like round puffswith seeds in the center of the flower. It is native to Bolivia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Calliandra haematocephalahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit lipoxygenase activityand MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions of Calliandrahaematocephala can be used to obtain the corresponding extract.Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit,flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

22. Excoecaria acerifolia

Excoecaria acerifolia is a small shrub that can reach 1-3 meters inheight. It has long narrow leaves that can range from 5-9 centimeters inlength and 0.8 to 2 centimeters in width. It is capable of producingflowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to China (e.g., Gansu, Guizhou,Hubei, Hunan, Sichuan, Yunnan) and tropical Asia (e.g., India andNepal).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Excoecaria acerifoliahave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit lipoxygenase activityand MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions of Excoecariaacerifolia can be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limitingexamples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers orflower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

23. Dianthus chinensis

Dianthus chinensis is an herbaceous perennial plant that can reach 30-50centimeters in height. The leaves have a green to greyish color and areslender with dimentions of 3-5 centimeters in length and 2-4 millimetersin width. It is capable of producing flowers, fruit, and seeds. It isnative to China, Korea, Mongolia, and southeastern Russia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Dianthus chinensis haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Dianthus chinensis can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

24. Myriophyllum spicatum

Myriophyllum spicatum, also known as Eurasian Water-Milfoil, is aperennial herb that is submerged in water. It has long underwater stemsthat branch out to produce leaves above the surface of the water. Theleaves are uniformly tapered so that the leaf shape appears to be anequilateral triangle with a curved base. It is capable of producingflowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to Europe, Asia, and northernAfrica.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Myriophyllum spicatumhave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Myriophyllum spicatum can be used to obtainthe corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves,stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and theentire plant.

25. Nymphoides peltatum

Nymphoides peltatum is an aquatic plant that has long stems that floaton the surface of the water. The stems connect to leaf nodes. It iscapable of producing flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native toPakistan.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Nymphoides peltatum haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Nymphoides peltatum can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

26. Prunus salicina

Prunus salicina, also referred to as Chinese or Japanese plum, is asmall deciduous tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height. It hasreddish-brown shoots, leaves that are 6-12 centimeters in length and2.5-5 centimeters in width. This plant is capable of producing flowers,fruit (which has a yellow-pink pulp), and seeds. It is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Prunus salicina haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit lipoxygenase activityand MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions of Prunus salicina canbe used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examplesinclude its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds,seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

27. Solanum coagulans

Solanum coagulans is a perennial herb that can reach up to 70centimeters in height. Its leaves range from 1-6 centimeters in lengthand include several prickles. It is capable of producing flowers, fruit,and seeds. It is native to Africa (e.g., Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia,Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Solanum coagulans haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Solanum coagulans can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

28. Elaeis guineensis

Elaeis guineensis, also known as the African oil palm, is a palm treethat can reach up to 20 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate andhave a length of 3-5 meters. This plant is capable of producing flowers,fruit, and seeds. It is native to west Africa (e.g., between Angola andGambia).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Elaeis guineensis haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Elaeis guineensis can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

29. Rhododendron moulmainense

Rhododendron moulmainense is an evergreen shrub or small tree that canreach 3-8 meters in height. Its leaves are 4-13 centimeters in lengthand have an elliptical shape. This plant is capable of producingflowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to China (e.g., Fujian,Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hunan, and Yunnan), Myanmar, Malaysia,Thailand, and Vietnam.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Rhododendron moulmainensehave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit lipoxygenase activity,tyrosinase activity, and MMP-1 activity. All of the different portionsof Rhododendron moulmainense can be used to obtain the correspondingextract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots,fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

30. Spatholobus suberectus

Spatholobus suberectus is a plant that is characterized as a woodyclimber or small shrub. It has small green leaves and is native toChina.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Spatholobus suberectushave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include theability to inhibit lipoxygenase activity and MMP-1 activity. All of thedifferent portions of Spatholobus suberectus can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

31. Artabotrys hexapetalus

Artabotrys hexapetalus, also referred to as the Ylang-Ylang vine, is amedium sized vine that has elongated green leaves and is capable ofproducing flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to China (e.g.,Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi, Jiangxi, Yunnan, Zhejiang), Taiwan,Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Artabotrys hexapetalushave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit lipoxygenase activityand MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions of Artabotryshexapetalus can be used to obtain the corresponding extract.Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit,flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

32. Hibiscus syriacus

Hibiscus syriacus, also referred to as the Rose of Sharon, Shrub Althea,and Rose of Althea, is a flowering shrub that has green leaves and canreach 2.4 meters in height. It is capable of producing flowers, fruits,and seeds. This plant is native to China and India.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Hibiscus syriacus haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Hibiscus syriacus can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

33. Lonicera calcarata

Lonicera calcarata is a twining vine that produces honeysuckles. It hasgreen oval-shaped leaves that are 1-10 centimeters long. It is capableof producing flowers, fruit, and seeds. This plant is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Lonicera calcarata haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Lonicera calcarata can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

34. Hydnocarpus hainanensis

Hydnocarpus hainanensis is an evergreen tree that can reach 6-12 metersin height. It has grey-brown bark and oblong-shaped leaf blades. Thisplant is capable of producing flowers, fruit, and seeds. This plant isnative to China (e.g., Guangxi and Hainan) and Vietnam.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Hydnocarpus hainanensishave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. Allof the different portions of Hydnocarpus hainanensis can be used toobtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include itsleaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap,and the entire plant.

35. Ilex fragilis

Ilex fragilis is a small deciduous tree or shrub that can reach 3-5meters in height. It has ovate or elliptic leaf blades that have adimension of 4-8×3-5 centimeters. This plant is capable of producingflowers, fruit, and seeds. This plant is native to China and EasternIndia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Ilex fragilis haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Ilex fragilis can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

36. Antidesma venosum

Antidesma venosum, also referred to as Tassle Berry, is shrub or smalltree that has oblong to elliptic shaped leaves. This plant is capable ofproducing flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to central andsouthern Africa.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Antidesma venosum haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Antidesma venosum can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

37. Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii

Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii is a shrub or small tree that has brancheswith scattered prickles. Its leaves can be 2-4 centimeters long. Thisplant is capable of producing flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native toThailand.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Acacia pennata ssp.Kerrii have several biological activities, which can be beneficial toskin. Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activitiesinclude antioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1activity. All of the different portions of Acacia pennata ssp. Kerriican be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limiting examplesinclude its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds,seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

38. Althaea rosea

Althaea rosea, also referred to as Hollyhocks, is an ornamental plantthat can reach up to 8 feet in height. It is a perennial plant that iscapable of producing flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Althaea rosea haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Althaea rosea can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

39. Millettia velutina

Millettia velutina is a tree that can reach 8-15 meters in height. Ithas a grayish brown bark, yellow branchlets, and green leaves. It iscapable of producing flowers, fruit, and seeds. It is native to China(e.g., Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hunan, Sichuan, and Yunnan).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Millettia velutina haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties. All of the different portions of Millettiavelutina can be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limitingexamples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers orflower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

40. Themeda japonica

Themeda japonica is a thin bladed grass in which the blades are about tocentimeters in length and about 3 millimeters wide. It is capable ofproducing flowers and seeds. This grass is native to China, Korea, andJapan.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Themeda japonica haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Themeda japonica can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

41. Dalbergia hancei

Dalbergia hancei is woody vine that has green leaves that are 5-8centimeters in length. It is capable of producing flowers and seeds.This plant is native to China (e.g., Anhui, Fujian, Guangdong, Guangxi,Guizhou, Hainan, Jiangxi, Sichuan, Zhejiang), Thailand, and Vietnam.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Dalbergia hancei haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin. All ofthe different portions of Dalbergia hancei can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

42. Ipomoea batatas

Ipomoea batatas, also known as sweet potato, is a sweet tasting tuberousroot that has green leaves. It is a perennial vine that has green leavesand can produce flowers and seeds. This plant is native to the tropicalparts of South America.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Ipomoea batatas haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include theability to inhibit TNF-α activity. All of the different portions ofIpomoea batatas can be used to obtain the corresponding extract.Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit,flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

43. Photinia glomerata

Photinia glomerata is a small evergreen tree or shrub that can reach6-10 meters in height. It has purplish brown to grayish brown branchletsand is capable of producing flowers, fruits, and seeds. This plant isnative to China (e.g., Hubei, Sichuan, Yunnan).

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Photinia glomerata haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include theability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions ofPhotinia glomerata can be used to obtain the corresponding extract.Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit,flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

44. Hippophae rhamnoides

Hippophae rhamnoides, also known as sea-buckthorn, is a thorny deciduousshrub. Its leaves have a pale silvery-green color and are 3-8centimeters long and less than 7 millimeters wide. It is capable ofproducing flowers, fruits, and seeds. This plant is native to Europe,China, Japan, and the Himalayas.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Hippophae rhamnoides haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities include theability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All of the different portions ofHippophae rhamnoides can be used to obtain the corresponding extract.Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit,flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

45. Azadirachta indica

Azadirachta indica, also known as neem, is an evergreen tree from themahogany family Meliaceae. It can reach a height of 15-20 meter. Theleaves are pinnate and are 20-40 centimeters long. It is capable ofproducing flower, fruit, and seeds. This plant is native to south Asia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Azadirachta indica haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Azadirachta indica can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

46. Karelinia caspica

Karelinia caspica is a perennial herb that is capable of producingflowers, fruit, and seed. This plant is native to Uzbekistan, thesoutheastern part of European Russia, Iran, Afghanistan, and Mongolia.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Karelinia caspica haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit TNF-α activity. All ofthe different portions of Karelinia caspica can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

47. Bauhinia touranensis

Bauhinia touranensis is a woody vine with green leaves having adimension of 3.5−6×4-6.5 centimeters. It is capable of producingflowers, fruit, and seed. This plant is native to China (e.g., Guangxi,Guizhou, and Yunnan), Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Karelinia caspica haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Karelinia caspica can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant. Bauhinia touranensis

48. Eriobotrya japonicas

Eriobotrya japonicas, also known as loquat, is an evergreen fruit treethat can reach 5-10 meters in height. Its leaves are 10-25 centimeterslong, dark green, and have a tough and leathery texture. Its fruits area yellowish to orange color. This plant can also produce flowers andseeds. It is native to southeastern China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Eriobotrya japonicas haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit MMP-1 activity. All ofthe different portions of Eriobotrya japonicas can be used to obtain thecorresponding extract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems,bark, roots, fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entireplant.

49. Anaphalis contorta

Anaphalis contorta is an herb that is woody at its base with erect ordecumbent stems. The leaves are narrow and have a dimension of 10-30centimeters×1-5 millimeters. It is capable of producing flowers, fruits,and seeds. This plant is native to southeastern Pakistan, India, Nepal,Bhutan, China, and the Philippines.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Anaphalis contorta haveseveral biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties. All of the different portions of Anaphaliscontorta can be used to obtain the corresponding extract. Non-limitingexamples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots, fruit, flowers orflower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

50. Cratoxylum prunifolium

Cratoxylum prunifolium is a tree that has oblong-elliptic leaves rangingfrom 3.5-9 cm in length and 2-3.5 cm in width. It can produce orange-redcolored flowers. This plant is native to China.

The inventors have discovered that extracts of Cratoxylum prunifoliumhave several biological activities, which can be beneficial to skin.Non-limiting examples of some of these biological activities includeantioxidant properties and MMP-1 activity. All of the different portionsof Cratoxylum prunifolium can be used to obtain the correspondingextract. Non-limiting examples include its leaves, stems, bark, roots,fruit, flowers or flower buds, seeds, sap, and the entire plant.

B. Compositions of the Present Invention

1. Combinations and Amounts of Ingredients

It is contemplated that the compositions of the present invention caninclude any one of Michelia magnifica, Xylosma japonicum, Prunuscerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthus praecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inulahelianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri, Passiflora caerulea, Galiumaparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhounia coccinea, Sageretia rugosa,Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus, Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscutachinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthus parvifolius, Euphorbia trigona,Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecaria acerifolia, Dianthus chinensis,Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoides peltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanumcoagulans, Elaeis guineensis, Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobussuberectus, Artabotrys hexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Loniceracalcarata, Hydnocarpus hainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum,Acacia pennata ssp. Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themedajaponica, Dalbergia hancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate,Hippophae rhamnoides, Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhiniatouranensis, Eriobotrya japonicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylumprunifolium or any combination thereof, or all of such plants, plantparts, or extracts thereof, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28,29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46,47, 48, 49, and/or 50 of such plants, plant parts, or extracts thereof.The compositions can also include additional ingredients describedthroughout this specification. The concentrations of the plant extractsand/or additional ingredients can vary. In non-limiting embodiments, forexample, the compositions can include in their final form, for example,at least about 0.0001%, 0.0002%, 0.0003%, 0.0004%, 0.0005%, 0.0006%,0.0007%, 0.0008%, 0.0009%, 0.0010%, 0.0011%, 0.0012%, 0.0013%, 0.0014%,0.0015%, 0.0016%, 0.0017%, 0.0018%, 0.0019%, 0.0020%, 0.0021%, 0.0022%,0.0023%, 0.0024%, 0.0025%, 0.0026%, 0.0027%, 0.0028%, 0.0029%, 0.0030%,0.0031%, 0.0032%, 0.0033%, 0.0034%, 0.0035%, 0.0036%, 0.0037%, 0.0038%,0.0039%, 0.0040%, 0.0041%, 0.0042%, 0.0043%, 0.0044%, 0.0045%, 0.0046%,0.0047%, 0.0048%, 0.0049%, 0.0050%, 0.0051%, 0.0052%, 0.0053%, 0.0054%,0.0055%, 0.0056%, 0.0057%, 0.0058%, 0.0059%, 0.0060%, 0.0061%, 0.0062%,0.0063%, 0.0064%, 0.0065%, 0.0066%, 0.0067%, 0.0068%, 0.0069%, 0.0070%,0.0071%, 0.0072%, 0.0073%, 0.0074%, 0.0075%, 0.0076%, 0.0077%, 0.0078%,0.0079%, 0.0080%, 0.0081%, 0.0082%, 0.0083%, 0.0084%, 0.0085%, 0.0086%,0.0087%, 0.0088%, 0.0089%, 0.0090%, 0.0091%, 0.0092%, 0.0093%, 0.0094%,0.0095%, 0.0096%, 0.0097%, 0.0098%, 0.0099%, 0.0100%, 0.0200%, 0.0250%,0.0275%, 0.0300%, 0.0325%, 0.0350%, 0.0375%, 0.0400%, 0.0425%, 0.0450%,0.0475%, 0.0500%, 0.0525%, 0.0550%, 0.0575%, 0.0600%, 0.0625%, 0.0650%,0.0675%, 0.0700%, 0.0725%, 0.0750%, 0.0775%, 0.0800%, 0.0825%, 0.0850%,0.0875%, 0.0900%, 0.0925%, 0.0950%, 0.0975%, 0.1000%, 0.1250%, 0.1500%,0.1750%, 0.2000%, 0.2250%, 0.2500%, 0.2750%, 0.3000%, 0.3250%, 0.3500%,0.3750%, 0.4000%, 0.4250%, 0.4500%, 0.4750%, 0.5000%, 0.5250%, 0.550%,0.5750%, 0.6000%, 0.6250%, 0.6500%, 0.6750%, 0.7000%, 0.7250%, 0.7500%,0.7750%, 0.8000%, 0.8250%, 0.8500%, 0.8750%, 0.9000%, 0.9250%, 0.9500%,0.9750%, 1.0%, 1.1%, 1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, 1.6%, 1.7%, 1.8%, 1.9%,2.0%, 2.1%, 2.2%, 2.3%, 2.4%, 2.5%, 2.6%, 2.7%, 2.8%, 2.9%, 3.0%, 3.1%,3.2%, 3.3%, 3.4%, 3.5%, 3.6%, 3.7%, 3.8%, 3.9%, 4.0%, 4.1%, 4.2%, 4.3%,4.4%, 4.5%, 4.6%, 4.7%, 4.8%, 4.9%, 5.0%, 5.1%, 5.2%, 5.3%, 5.4%, 5.5%,5.6%, 5.7%, 5.8%, 5.9%, 6.0%, 6.1%, 6.2%, 6.3%, 6.4%, 6.5%, 6.6%, 6.7%,6.8%, 6.9%, 7.0%, 7.1%, 7.2%, 7.3%, 7.4%, 7.5%, 7.6%, 7.7%, 7.8%, 7.9%,8.0%, 8.1%, 8.2%, 8.3%, 8.4%, 8.5%, 8.6%, 8.7%, 8.8%, 8.9%, 9.0%, 9.1%,9.2%, 9.3%, 9.4%, 9.5%, 9.6%, 9.7%, 9.8%, 9.9%, 10%, 11%, 12%, 13%, 14%,15%, 16%, 17%, 18%, 19%, 20%, 21%, 22%, 23%, 24%, 25%, 26%, 27%, 28%,29%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or99% or more, or any range or integer derivable therein, of at least oneof the plant extracts identified in this specification or anycombination thereof or additional ingredients. In non-limiting aspects,the percentage of such ingredients can be calculated by weight or volumeof the total weight of the compositions. The concentrations can varydepending on the desired effect of the compositions or on the productinto which the compositions are incorporated.

2. Composition Vehicles

The compositions of the present invention can be formulated into alltypes of vehicles. Non-limiting examples of suitable vehicles includeemulsions (e.g., oil-in-water, water-in-oil, silicone-in-water,water-in-silicone, water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water,oil-in-water-in-oil, oil-in-water-in-silicone, etc.), creams, lotions,solutions (both aqueous and hydro-alcoholic), anhydrous bases (such aslipsticks and powders), gels, ointments, pastes, milks, liquids,aerosols, solid forms, or eye jellies. Variations and other appropriatevehicles will be apparent to the skilled artisan and are appropriate foruse in the present invention. In certain aspects, the concentrations andcombinations of the ingredients can be selected in such a way that thecombinations are chemically compatible and do not form complexes whichprecipitate from the finished product.

It is also contemplated that the plant extracts and additionalingredients identified throughout this specification can be encapsulatedfor delivery to a target area such as skin. Non-limiting examples ofencapsulation techniques include the use of liposomes, vesicles, and/ornanoparticles (e.g., biodegradable and non-biodegradable colloidalparticles comprising polymeric materials in which the ingredient istrapped, encapsulated, and/or absorbed—examples include nanospheres andnanocapsules) that can be used as delivery vehicles to deliver suchingredients to skin (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 6,387,398; U.S. Pat. No.6,203,802; U.S. Pat. No. 5,411,744; Kreuter 1988).

Also contemplated are pharmaceutically-acceptable orpharmacologically-acceptable compositions. The phrase“pharmaceutically-acceptable” or “pharmacologically-acceptable” includescompositions that do not produce an allergic or similar untowardreaction when administered to a human. Typically, such compositions areprepared either as topical compositions, liquid solutions orsuspensions, solid forms suitable for solution in, or suspension in,liquid prior to use can also be prepared. Routes of administration canvary with the location and nature of the condition to be treated, andinclude, e.g., topical, inhalation, intradermal, transdermal,parenteral, intravenous, intramuscular, intranasal, subcutaneous,percutaneous, intratracheal, intraperitoneal, intratumoral, perfusion,lavage, direct injection (e.g., an injectable solution), and oraladministration and formulation (e.g., tablets, capsules, etc.).

3. Products

The compositions of the present invention can be incorporated intoproducts. Non-limiting examples of products include cosmetic products,food-based products (e.g., fortified water, energy drinks, nutritionaldrinks, vitamins, supplements, solid foods), pharmaceutical products,etc. By way of example only, non-limiting cosmetic products includesunscreen products, sunless skin tanning products, hair products (e.g.,shampoos, conditioners, colorants, dyes, bleaches, straighteners, andpermanent wave products), fingernail products, moisturizing creams, skincreams and lotions, softeners, day lotions, gels, ointments,foundations, night creams, lipsticks and lip balms, cleansers, toners,masks, deodorants, antiperspirants, exfoliating compositions,shaving-related products (e.g., creams, “bracers” and aftershaves),pre-moistened wipes and washcloths, tanning lotions, bath products suchas oils, foot care products such as powders and sprays, skin colorantand make-up products such as foundations, blushes, rouges eye shadowsand lines, lip colors and mascaras, baby products (e.g., baby lotions,oils, shampoos, powders and wet wipes), and skin or facial peelproducts. Additionally, the cosmetic products can be formulated asleave-on or rinse-off products.

4. Additional Ingredients

Compositions of the present invention can include additionalingredients. Non-limiting examples of additional ingredients includecosmetic ingredients (both active and non-active) and pharmaceuticalingredients (both active and non-active).

a. Cosmetic Ingredients

The CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook(2008), 12^(th) Edition, describes a wide variety of non-limitingcosmetic ingredients that can be used in the context of the presentinvention. Examples of these ingredient classes include: fragrances(artificial and natural), dyes and color ingredients (e.g., Blue 1, Blue1 Lake, Red 40, titanium dioxide, D&C blue no. 4, D&C green no. 5, D&Corange no. 4, D&C red no. 17, D&C red no. 33, D&C violet no. 2, D&Cyellow no. 10, and D&C yellow no. 11), adsorbents, emulsifiers,stabilizers, lubricants, solvents, moisturizers (including, e.g.,emollients, humectants, film formers, occlusive agents, and agents thataffect the natural moisturization mechanisms of the skin),water-repellants, UV absorbers (physical and chemical absorbers such asparaminobenzoic acid (“PABA”) and corresponding PABA derivatives,titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, etc.), essential oils, vitamins (e.g., A,B, C, D, E, and K), trace metals (e.g., zinc, calcium and selenium),anti-irritants (e.g., steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories),botanical extracts (e.g., aloe vera, chamomile, cucumber extract, ginkgobiloba, ginseng, and rosemary), anti-microbial agents, antioxidants(e.g., BHT and tocopherol), chelating agents (e.g., disodium EDTA andtetrasodium EDTA), preservatives (e.g., methylparaben andpropylparaben), pH adjusters (e.g., sodium hydroxide and citric acid),absorbents (e.g., aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, kaolin, corn starch,oat starch, cyclodextrin, talc, and zeolite), skin bleaching andlightening agents (e.g., hydroquinone and niacinamide lactate),humectants (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentyleneglycol, sorbitol, urea, and manitol), exfoliants (e.g.,alpha-hydroxyacids, and beta-hydroxyacids such as lactic acid, glycolicacid, and salicylic acid; and salts thereof) waterproofing agents (e.g.,magnesium/aluminum hydroxide stearate), skin conditioning agents (e.g.,aloe extracts, allantoin, bisabolol, ceramides, dimethicone, hyaluronicacid, and dipotassium glycyrrhizate), thickening agents (e.g.,substances which that can increase the viscosity of a composition suchas carboxylic acid polymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers,polyacrylamide polymers, polysaccharides, and gums), and siliconecontaining compounds (e.g., silicone oils and polyorganosiloxanes). Thefollowing provides specific non-limiting examples of some of theadditional ingredients that can be used with the compositions of thepresent invention.

i. Sunscreen Agents

UV absorption agents that can be used in combination with thecompositions of the present invention include chemical and physicalsunblocks. Non-limiting examples of chemical sunblocks that can be usedinclude para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), PABA esters (glyceryl PABA,amyldimethyl PABA and octyldimethyl PABA), butyl PABA, ethyl PABA, ethyldihydroxypropyl PABA, benzophenones (oxybenzone, sulisobenzone,benzophenone, and benzophenone-1 through 12), cinnamates (octylmethoxycinnamate, isoamyl p-methoxycinnamate, octylmethoxy cinnamate,cinoxate, diisopropyl methyl cinnamate, DEA-methoxycinnamate, ethyldiisopropylcinnamate, glyceryl octanoate dimethoxycinnamate and ethylmethoxycinnamate), cinnamate esters, salicylates (homomethyl salicylate,benzyl salicylate, glycol salicylate, isopropylbenzyl salicylate, etc.),anthranilates, ethyl urocanate, homosalate, octisalate, dibenzoylmethanederivatives (e.g., avobenzone), octocrylene, octyl triazone, digalloytrioleate, glyceryl aminobenzoate, lawsone with dihydroxyacetone,ethylhexyl triazone, dioctyl butamido triazone, benzylidene malonatepolysiloxane, terephthalylidene dicamphor sulfonic acid, disodium phenyldibenzimidazole tetrasulfonate, diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl hexylbenzoate, bis diethylamino hydroxybenzoyl benzoate, bisbenzoxazoylphenyl ethylhexylimino triazine, drometrizole trisiloxane,methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol, andbis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyltriazine,4-methylbenzylidenecamphor, and isopentyl 4-methoxycinnamate.Non-limiting examples of physical sunblocks include, kaolin, talc,petrolatum and metal oxides (e.g., titanium dioxide and zinc oxide).Compositions of the present invention can have UVA and UVB absorptionproperties. The compositions can have an sun protection factor (SPF) of2, 3, 4, 56, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45,50, 55, 60, 70, 80, 90 or more, or any integer or derivative therein.

ii. Moisturizing Agents

Non-limiting examples of moisturizing agents that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include amino acids, chondroitinsulfate, diglycerin, erythritol, fructose, glucose, glycerin, glycerolpolymers, glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, honey, hyaluronic acid,hydrogenated honey, hydrogenated starch hydrolysate, inositol, lactitol,maltitol, maltose, mannitol, natural moisturizing factor, PEG-15butanediol, polyglyceryl sorbitol, salts of pyrollidone carboxylic acid,potassium PCA, propylene glycol, sodium glucuronate, sodium PCA,sorbitol, sucrose, trehalose, urea, and xylitol.

Other examples include acetylated lanolin, acetylated lanolin alcohol,acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, acrylates copolymer,alanine, algae extract, aloe barbadensis, aloe-barbadensis extract, aloebarbadensis gel, althea officinalis extract, aluminum starchoctenylsuccinate, aluminum stearate, apricot (prunus armeniaca) kerneloil, arginine, arginine aspartate, arnica montana extract, ascorbicacid, ascorbyl palmitate, aspartic acid, avocado (persea gratissima)oil, barium sulfate, barrier sphingolipids, butyl alcohol, beeswax,behenyl alcohol, beta-sitosterol, BHT, birch (betula alba) bark extract,borage (borago officinalis) extract, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol,butcherbroom (ruscus aculeatus) extract, butylene glycol, calendulaofficinalis extract, calendula officinalis oil, candelilla (euphorbiacerifera) wax, canola oil, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cardamon(elettaria cardamomum) oil, carnauba (copernicia cerifera) wax,carrageenan (chondrus crispus), carrot (daucus carota sativa) oil,castor (ricinus communis) oil, ceramides, ceresin, ceteareth-5,ceteareth-12, ceteareth-20, cetearyl octanoate, ceteth-20, ceteth-24,cetyl acetate, cetyl octanoate, cetyl palmitate, chamomile (anthemisnobilis) oil, cholesterol, cholesterol esters, cholesterylhydroxystearate, citric acid, clary (salvia sclarea) oil, cocoa(theobroma cacao) butter, coco-caprylate/caprate, coconut (cocosnucifera) oil, collagen, collagen amino acids, corn (zea mays)oil, fattyacids, decyl oleate, dextrin, diazolidinyl urea, dimethicone copolyol,dimethiconol, dioctyl adipate, dioctyl succinate, dipentaerythritylhexacaprylate/hexacaprate, DMDM hydantoin, DNA, erythritol,ethoxydiglycol, ethyl linoleate, eucalyptus globulus oil, eveningprimrose (oenothera biennis) oil, fatty acids, tructose, gelatin,geranium maculatum oil, glucosamine, glucose glutamate, glutamic acid,glycereth-26, glycerin, glycerol, glyceryl distearate, glycerylhydroxystearate, glyceryl laurate, glyceryl linoleate, glycerylmyristate, glyceryl oleate, glyceryl stearate, glyceryl stearate SE,glycine, glycol stearate, glycol stearate SE, glycosaminoglycans, grape(vitis vinifera) seed oil, hazel (corylus americana) nut oil, hazel(corylus avellana) nut oil, hexylene glycol, honey, hyaluronic acid,hybrid safflower (carthamus tinctorius) oil, hydrogenated castor oil,hydrogenated coco-glycerides, hydrogenated coconut oil, hydrogenatedlanolin, hydrogenated lecithin, hydrogenated palm glyceride,hydrogenated palm kernel oil, hydrogenated soybean oil, hydrogenatedtallow glyceride, hydrogenated vegetable oil, hydrolyzed collagen,hydrolyzed elastin, hydrolyzed glycosaminoglycans, hydrolyzed keratin,hydrolyzed soy protein, hydroxylated lanolin, hydroxyproline,imidazolidinyl urea, iodopropynyl butylcarbamate, isocetyl stearate,isocetyl stearoyl stearate, isodecyl oleate, isopropyl isostearate,isopropyl lanolate, isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, isopropylstearate, isostearamide DEA, isostearic acid, isostearyl lactate,isostearyl neopentanoate, jasmine (jasminum officinale) oil, jojoba(buxus chinensis) oil, kelp, kukui (aleurites moluccana) nut oil,lactamide MEA, laneth-16, laneth-10 acetate, lanolin, lanolin acid,lanolin alcohol, lanolin oil, lanolin wax, lavender (lavandulaangustifolia) oil, lecithin, lemon (citrus medica limonum) oil, linoleicacid, linolenic acid, macadamia ternifolia nut oil, magnesium stearate,magnesium sulfate, maltitol, matricaria (chamomilla recutita) oil,methyl glucose sesquistearate, methylsilanol PCA, microcrystalline wax,mineral oil, mink oil, mortierella oil, myristyl lactate, myristylmyristate, myristyl propionate, neopentyl glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate,octyldodecanol, octyldodecyl myristate, octyldodecyl stearoyl stearate,octyl hydroxystearate, octyl palmitate, octyl salicylate, octylstearate, oleic acid, olive (olea europaea) oil, orange (citrusaurantium dulcis) oil, palm (elaeis guineensis) oil, palmitic acid,pantethine, panthenol, panthenyl ethyl ether, paraffin, PCA, peach(prunus persica) kernel oil, peanut (arachis hypogaea) oil, PEG-8 C12-18ester, PEG-15 cocamine, PEG-150 distearate, PEG-60 glyceryl isostearate,PEG-5 glyceryl stearate, PEG-30 glyceryl stearate, PEG-7 hydrogenatedcastor oil, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-60 hydrogenated castoroil, PEG-20 methyl glucose sesquistearate, PEG40 sorbitan peroleate,PEG-5 soy sterol, PEG-10 soy sterol, PEG-2 stearate, PEG-8 stearate,PEG-20 stearate, PEG-32 stearate, PEG40 stearate, PEG-50 stearate,PEG-100 stearate, PEG-150 stearate, pentadecalactone, peppermint (menthapiperita) oil, petrolatum, phospholipids, polyamino sugar condensate,polyglyceryl-3 diisostearate, polyquaternium-24, polysorbate 20,polysorbate 40, polysorbate 60, polysorbate 80, polysorbate 85,potassium myristate, potassium palmitate, potassium sorbate, potassiumstearate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate,propylene glycol dioctanoate, propylene glycol dipelargonate, propyleneglycol laurate, propylene glycol stearate, propylene glycol stearate SE,PVP, pyridoxine dipalmitate, quaternium-15, quaternium-18 hectorite,quaternium-22, retinol, retinol palmitate, rice (oryza sativa) bran oil,RNA, rosemary (rosmarinus officinalis) oil, rose oil, safflower(carthamus tinctorius) oil, sage (salvia officinalis) oil, salicylicacid, sandalwood (santalum album) oil, serine, serum protein, sesame(sesamum indicum) oil, shea butter (butyrospermum parkii), silk powder,sodium chondroitin sulfate, sodium hyaluronate, sodium lactate, sodiumpalmitate, sodium PCA, sodium polyglutamate, sodium stearate, solublecollagen, sorbic acid, sorbitan laurate, sorbitan oleate, sorbitanpalmitate, sorbitan sesquioleate, sorbitan stearate, sorbitol, soybean(glycine soja) oil, sphingolipids, squalane, squalene, stearamideMEA-stearate, stearic acid, stearoxy dimethicone,stearoxytrimethylsilane, stearyl alcohol, stearyl glycyrrhetinate,stearyl heptanoate, stearyl stearate, sunflower (helianthus annuus) seedoil, sweet almond (prunus amygdalus dulcis) oil, synthetic beeswax,tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tribehenin,tridecyl neopentanoate, tridecyl stearate, triethanolamine, tristearin,urea, vegetable oil, water, waxes, wheat (triticum vulgare) germ oil,and ylang ylang (cananga odorata) oil.

iii. Antioxidants

Non-limiting examples of antioxidants that can be used with thecompositions of the present invention include acetyl cysteine, ascorbicacid polypeptide, ascorbyl dipalmitate, ascorbyl methylsilanolpectinate, ascorbyl palmitate, ascorbyl stearate, BHA, BHT, t-butylhydroquinone, cysteine, cysteine HCl, diamylhydroquinone,di-t-butylhydroquinone, dicetyl thiodipropionate, dioleyl tocopherylmethylsilanol, disodium ascorbyl sulfate, distearyl thiodipropionate,ditridecyl thiodipropionate, dodecyl gallate, erythorbic acid, esters ofascorbic acid, ethyl ferulate, ferulic acid, gallic acid esters,hydroquinone, isooctyl thioglycolate, kojic acid, magnesium ascorbate,magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, methylsilanol ascorbate, natural botanicalanti-oxidants such as green tea or grape seed extracts,nordihydroguaiaretic acid, octyl gallate, phenylthioglycolic acid,potassium ascorbyl tocopheryl phosphate, potassium sulfite, propylgallate, quinones, rosmarinic acid, sodium ascorbate, sodium bisulfite,sodium erythorbate, sodium metabisulfite, sodium sulfite, superoxidedismutase, sodium thioglycolate, sorbityl furfural, thiodiglycol,thiodiglycolamide, thiodiglycolic acid, thioglycolic acid, thiolacticacid, thiosalicylic acid, tocophereth-5, tocophereth-10, tocophereth-12,tocophereth-18, tocophereth-50, tocopherol, tocophersolan, tocopherylacetate, tocopheryl linoleate, tocopheryl nicotinate, tocopherylsuccinate, and tris(nonylphenyl)phosphite.

iv. Structuring Agents

In other non-limiting aspects, the compositions of the present inventioncan include a structuring agent. Structuring agents, in certain aspects,assist in providing rheological characteristics to the composition tocontribute to the composition's stability. In other aspects, structuringagents can also function as an emulsifier or surfactant. Non-limitingexamples of structuring agents include stearic acid, palmitic acid,stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol, stearic acid, palmiticacid, the polyethylene glycol ether of stearyl alcohol having an averageof about 1 to about 21 ethylene oxide units, the polyethylene glycolether of cetyl alcohol having an average of about 1 to about 5 ethyleneoxide units, and mixtures thereof

v. Emulsifiers

In some non-limiting aspects, the compositions can include one or moreemulsifiers. Emulsifiers can reduce the interfacial tension betweenphases and improve the formulation and stability of an emulsion. Theemulsifiers can be nonionic, cationic, anionic, and zwitterionicemulsifiers (See McCutcheon's (1986); U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,011,681;4,421,769; 3,755,560). Non-limiting examples include esters of glycerin,esters of propylene glycol, fatty acid esters of polyethylene glycol,fatty acid esters of polypropylene glycol, esters of sorbitol, esters ofsorbitan anhydrides, carboxylic acid copolymers, esters and ethers ofglucose, ethoxylated ethers, ethoxylated alcohols, alkyl phosphates,polyoxyethylene fatty ether phosphates, fatty acid amides, acyllactylates, soaps, TEA stearate, DEA oleth-3 phosphate, polyethyleneglycol 20 sorbitan monolaurate (polysorbate 20), polyethylene glycol 5soya sterol, steareth-2, steareth-20, steareth-21, ceteareth-20, PPG-2methyl glucose ether distearate, ceteth-10, polysorbate 80, cetylphosphate, potassium cetyl phosphate, diethanolamine cetyl phosphate,polysorbate 60, glyceryl stearate, PEG-100 stearate, and mixturesthereof

vi. Silicone Containing Compounds

In non-limiting aspects, silicone containing compounds include anymember of a family of polymeric products whose molecular backbone ismade up of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms with side groupsattached to the silicon atoms. By varying the —Si—O— chain lengths, sidegroups, and crosslinking, silicones can be synthesized into a widevariety of materials. They can vary in consistency from liquid to gel tosolids.

The silicone containing compounds that can be used in the context of thepresent invention include those described in this specification or thoseknown to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Non-limiting examplesinclude silicone oils (e.g., volatile and non-volatile oils), gels, andsolids. In preferred aspects, the silicon containing compounds includesa silicone oils such as a polyorganosiloxane. Non-limiting examples ofpolyorganosiloxanes include dimethicone, cyclomethicone,polysilicone-11, phenyl trimethicone, trimethylsilylamodimethicone,stearoxytrimethylsilane, or mixtures of these and other organosiloxanematerials in any given ratio in order to achieve the desired consistencyand application characteristics depending upon the intended application(e.g., to a particular area such as the skin, hair, or eyes). A“volatile silicone oil” includes a silicone oil have a low heat ofvaporization, i.e. normally less than about 50 cal per gram of siliconeoil. Non-limiting examples of volatile silicone oils include:cyclomethicones such as Dow Corning 344 Fluid, Dow Corning 345 Fluid,Dow Corning 244 Fluid, and Dow Corning 245 Fluid, Volatile Silicon 7207(Union Carbide Corp., Danbury, Conn.); low viscosity dimethicones, i.e.dimethicones having a viscosity of about 50 cst or less (e.g.,dimethicones such as Dow Corning 200-0.5 cst Fluid). The Dow CorningFluids are available from Dow Corning Corporation, Midland, Mich.Cyclomethicone and dimethicone are described in the Third Edition of theCTFA Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (incorporated by reference) ascyclic dimethyl polysiloxane compounds and a mixture of fully methylatedlinear siloxane polymers end-blocked with trimethylsiloxy units,respectively. Other non-limiting volatile silicone oils that can be usedin the context of the present invention include those available fromGeneral Electric Co., Silicone Products Div., Waterford, N.Y. and SWSSilicones Div. of Stauffer Chemical Co., Adrian, Mich.

vii. Essential Oils

Essential oils include oils derived from herbs, flowers, trees, andother plants. Such oils are typically present as tiny droplets betweenthe plant's cells, and can be extracted by several method known to thoseof skill in the art (e.g., steam distilled, enfleurage (i.e., extractionby using fat), maceration, solvent extraction, or mechanical pressing).When these types of oils are exposed to air they tend to evaporate(i.e., a volatile oil). As a result, many essential oils are colorless,but with age they can oxidize and become darker. Essential oils areinsoluble in water and are soluble in alcohol, ether, fixed oils(vegetal), and other organic solvents. Typical physical characteristicsfound in essential oils include boiling points that vary from about 160°to 240° C. and densities ranging from about 0.759 to about 1.096.

Essential oils typically are named by the plant from which the oil isfound. For example, rose oil or peppermint oil are derived from rose orpeppermint plants, respectively. Non-limiting examples of essential oilsthat can be used in the context of the present invention include sesameoil, macadamia nut oil, tea tree oil, evening primrose oil, Spanish sageoil, Spanish rosemary oil, coriander oil, thyme oil, pimento berriesoil, rose oil, anise oil, balsam oil, bergamot oil, rosewood oil, cedaroil, chamomile oil, sage oil, clary sage oil, clove oil, cypress oil,eucalyptus oil, fennel oil, sea fennel oil, frankincense oil, geraniumoil, ginger oil, grapefruit oil, jasmine oil, juniper oil, lavender oil,lemon oil, lemongrass oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, marjoram oil, myrrhoil, neroli oil, orange oil, patchouli oil, pepper oil, black pepperoil, petitgrain oil, pine oil, rose otto oil, rosemary oil, sandalwoodoil, spearmint oil, spikenard oil, vetiver oil, wintergreen oil, orylang ylang. Other essential oils known to those of skill in the art arealso contemplated as being useful within the context of the presentinvention.

viii. Thickening Agents

Thickening agents, including thickener or gelling agents, includesubstances that can increase the viscosity of a composition. Thickenersinclude those that can increase the viscosity of a composition withoutsubstantially modifying the efficacy of the active ingredient within thecomposition. Thickeners can also increase the stability of thecompositions of the present invention.

Non-limiting examples of additional thickening agents that can be usedin the context of the present invention include carboxylic acidpolymers, crosslinked polyacrylate polymers, polyacrylamide polymers,polysaccharides, and gums. Examples of carboxylic acid polymers includecrosslinked compounds containing one or more monomers derived fromacrylic acid, substituted acrylic acids, and salts and esters of theseacrylic acids and the substituted acrylic acids, wherein thecrosslinking agent contains two or more carbon-carbon double bonds andis derived from a polyhydric alcohol (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,087,445;4,509,949; 2,798,053; CTFA International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary,Fourth edition, 1991, pp. 12 and 80). Examples of commercially availablecarboxylic acid polymers include carbomers, which are homopolymers ofacrylic acid crosslinked with allyl ethers of sucrose or pentaerytritol(e.g., Carbopol™ 900 series from B. F. Goodrich).

Non-limiting examples of crosslinked polyacrylate polymers includecationic and nonionic polymers. Examples are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,100,660; 4,849,484; 4,835,206; 4,628,078; 4,599,379).

Non-limiting examples of polyacrylamide polymers (including nonionicpolyacrylamide polymers including substituted branched or unbranchedpolymers) include polyacrylamide, isoparaffin and laureth-7, multi-blockcopolymers of acrylamides and substituted acrylamides with acrylic acidsand substituted acrylic acids.

Non-limiting examples of polysaccharides include cellulose,carboxymethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose acetate propionatecarboxylate, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, methylhydroxyethylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium cellulosesulfate, and mixtures thereof. Another example is an alkyl substitutedcellulose where the hydroxy groups of the cellulose polymer ishydroxyalkylated (preferably hydroxy ethylated or hydroxypropylated) toform a hydroxyalkylated cellulose which is then further modified with aC₁₀-C₃₀ straight chain or branched chain alkyl group through an etherlinkage. Typically these polymers are ethers of C₁₀-C₃₀ straight orbranched chain alcohols with hydroxyalkylcelluloses. Other usefulpolysaccharides include scleroglucans comprising a linear chain of (1-3)linked glucose units with a (1-6) linked glucose every three unit.

Non-limiting examples of gums that can be used with the presentinvention include acacia, agar, algin, alginic acid, ammonium alginate,amylopectin, calcium alginate, calcium carrageenan, carnitine,carrageenan, dextrin, gelatin, gellan gum, guar gum, guarhydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, hectorite, hyaluroinic acid, hydratedsilica, hydroxypropyl chitosan, hydroxypropyl guar, karaya gum, kelp,locust bean gum, natto gum, potassium alginate, potassium carrageenan,propylene glycol alginate, sclerotium gum, sodium carboyxmethyl dextran,sodium carrageenan, tragacanth gum, xanthan gum, and mixtures thereof.

b. Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Pharmaceutical ingredients are also contemplated as being useful withthe emulsion compositions of the present invention. Non-limitingexamples of pharmaceutical ingredients include anti-acne agents, agentsused to treat rosacea, analgesics, anesthetics, anorectals,antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents including non-steroidalanti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals,antimicrobials, anti-cancer actives, scabicides, pediculicides,antineoplastics, antiperspirants, antipruritics, antipsoriatic agents,antiseborrheic agents, biologically active proteins and peptides, burntreatment agents, cauterizing agents, depigmenting agents, depilatories,diaper rash treatment agents, enzymes, hair growth stimulants, hairgrowth retardants including DFMO and its salts and analogs, hemostatics,kerotolytics, canker sore treatment agents, cold sore treatment agents,dental and periodontal treatment agents, photosensitizing actives, skinprotectant/barrier agents, steroids including hormones andcorticosteroids, sunburn treatment agents, sunscreens, transdermalactives, nasal actives, vaginal actives, wart treatment agents, woundtreatment agents, wound healing agents, etc.

C. Kits

Kits are also contemplated as being used in certain aspects of thepresent invention. For instance, a composition of the present inventioncan be included in a kit. A kit can include a container. Containers caninclude a bottle, a metal tube, a laminate tube, a plastic tube, adispenser, a pressurized container, a barrier container, a package, acompartment, a lipstick container, a compact container, cosmetic pansthat can hold cosmetic compositions, or other types of containers suchas injection or blow-molded plastic containers into which thedispersions or compositions or desired bottles, dispensers, or packagesare retained. The kit and/or container can include indicia on itssurface. The indicia, for example, can be a word, a phrase, anabbreviation, a picture, or a symbol.

The containers can dispense a pre-determined amount of a composition. Inother embodiments, the container can be squeezed (e.g., metal, laminate,or plastic tube) to dispense a desired amount of the composition. Thecomposition can be dispensed as a spray, foam, an aerosol, a liquid, afluid, or a semi-solid. The containers can have spray, pump, or squeezemechanisms. A kit can also include instructions for using the kit and/orcompositions. Instructions can include an explanation of how to apply,use, and maintain the compositions.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are included to demonstrate certain non-limitingaspects of the invention. It should be appreciated by those of skill inthe art that the techniques disclosed in the examples which followrepresent techniques discovered by the inventor to function well in thepractice of the invention. However, those of skill in the art should, inlight of the present disclosure, appreciate that many changes can bemade in the specific embodiments which are disclosed and still obtain alike or similar result without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention.

Example 1 Materials and Methods for Obtaining Extracts

The extracts identified in Table 1 were prepared from the whole plant.Each plant was individually obtained, ground, and dried, to produce apowder. The powder was treated according to the process described inFIG. 1. Each extract in Table 1 was prepared by and provided to theinventors by Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences,Yunnan, CHINA.

Example 2 Efficacy of Extracts

Each extract prepared according to the process described in Example 1was subjected to a variety of assays to determine their skin efficacy(note the H₂O part (v) extract was used for testing—see FIG. 1). Thefollowing Table 1 provides a summary of these data. A description of theassays used to obtain these data is provided below Table 1.

TABLE 1* Plant Extract** TNF-α Inhibition AO Activity MMP-1 LipoxygenaseTyrosinase Inhibition Michelia magnifica Xylosma japonicum EFFECT EFFECTPrunus cerasifera EFFECT EFFECT Nyssa sinensis EFFECT EFFECTChimonanthus praecox Sassafras tzumu EFFECT EFFECT Inulahelianthus-aquatica EFFECT EFFECT Capparis bodinieri Passiflora caeruleaGalium aparine Boehmeria platyphylla EFFECT EFFECT EFFECT EFFECTColquhounia coccinea Sageretia rugosa EFFECT EFFECT Jasminum stephanenseEFFECT Antirrhinum majus EFFECT Daphniphyllum oldhamii EFFECT Cuscutachinensis EFFECT Salix variegate Osmanthus parvifolius EFFECT Euphorbiatrigona Calliandra haematocephala EFFECT EFFECT EFFECT Excoecariaacerifolia EFFECT EFFECT EFFECT Dianthus chinensis Myriophyllum spicatumEFFECT EFFECT Nymphoides peltatum Prunus salicina EFFECT EFFECT EFFECTSolanum coagulans Elaeis guineensis Rhododendron moulmainense EFFECTEFFECT EFFECT EFFECT Spatholobus suberectus EFFECT EFFECT Artabotryshexapetalus EFFECT EFFECT EFFECT Hibiscus syriacus Lonicera calcarataEFFECT EFFECT Hydnocarpus hainanensis Ilex fragilis Antidesma venosumAcacia pennata ssp. Kerrii EFFECT EFFECT Althaea rosea Millettiavelutina EFFECT Themeda japonica Dalbergia hancei Ipomoea batatas EFFECTPhotinia glomerata EFFECT Hippophae rhamnoides EFFECT Azadirachta indicaEFFECT EFFECT Karelinia caspica EFFECT EFFECT Bauhinia touranensisEFFECT EFFECT Eriobotrya japonicas EFFECT EFFECT Anaphalis contortaEFFECT Cratoxylum prunifolium EFFECT EFFECT *“EFFECT” means that thegiven extract had a measurable effect on the corresponding activitybeing assayed, which is indicative of beneficial results when applied toskin. **In addition to the extracts identified in Table 1, these datasuggest that any number of different combinations of such extracts canbe used (including those in Tables 1-2) in a product to produce amulti-functional product. Alternatively, the extracts can be usedindividually, which still can result in a product having multiplebenefits.

Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) Assay: The prototype ligand of theTNF superfamily, TNF-α, is a pleiotropic cytokine that plays a centralrole in inflammation. Increase in its expression is associated with anup regulation in pro-inflammatory activity. This bioassay analyzes theeffect of extracts on the production of TNF-α by human epidermalkeratinocytes. The endpoint of this assay is a spectrophotometricmeasurement that reflects the presence of TNF-α and cellular viability.The assay employs the quantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay techniquewhereby a monoclonal antibody specific for TNF-α has been pre-coatedonto a microplate. Standards and samples are pipetted into the wells andany TNF-α present is bound by the immobilized antibody. After washingaway any unbound substances, an enzyme-linked polyclonal antibodyspecific for TNF-α is added to the wells. Following a wash to remove anyunbound antibody-enzyme reagent, a substrate solution is added to thewells and color develops in proportion to the amount of TNF-α bound inthe initial step using a microplate reader for detection at 450 nm. Thecolor development is stopped and the intensity of the color is measured.

Subconfluent normal human adult keratinocytes (Cascade Biologics)cultivated in EpiLife standard growth medium (Cascade Biologics) at 37°C. in 5% CO₂, were treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA, 10ng/ml, Sigma Chemical, #P1585-1MG) and each of the extracts identifiedin Table 1 for 6 hours. PMA has been shown to cause a dramatic increasein TNF-α secretion which peaks at 6 hours after treatment. Followingincubation, cell culture medium was collected and the amount of TNF-αsecretion quantified using a sandwhich enzyme linked immuno-sorbantassay (ELISA) from R&D Systems (#DTA00C).

Antioxidant (AO) assay: An in vitro bioassay that measures the totalanti-oxidant capacity of an extract. The assay relies on the ability ofantioxidants in the sample to inhibit the oxidation of ABTS®(2,2′-azino-di-[3-ethylbenzthiazoline sulphonate]) to ABTS®+ bymetmyoglobin. The antioxidant system of living organisms includesenzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathioneperoxidase; macromolecules such as albumin, ceruloplasmin, and ferritin;and an array of small molecules, including ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol,β-carotene, reduced glutathione, uric acid, and bilirubin. The sum ofendogenous and food-derived antioxidants represents the totalantioxidant activity of the extracellular fluid. Cooperation of all thedifferent antioxidants provides greater protection against attack byreactive oxygen or nitrogen radicals, than any single compound alone.Thus, the overall antioxidant capacity may give more relevant biologicalinformation compared to that obtained by the measurement of individualcomponents, as it considers the cumulative effect of all antioxidantspresent in plasma and body fluids. The capacity of the antioxidants inthe sample to prevent ABTS oxidation is compared with that of Trolox, awater-soluble tocopherol analogue, and is quantified as molar Troloxequivalents.

Anti-Oxidant capacity kit #709001 from Cayman Chemical (Ann Arbor, Mich.USA) was used as an in vitro bioassay to measure the total anti-oxidantcapacity of each of the extracts identified in Table 1. The protocol wasfollowed according to manufacturer recommendations. The assay relied onantioxidants in the sample to inhibit the oxidation of ABTS®(2,2′-azino-di-[3-ethylbenzthiazoline sulphonate]) to ABTS®.+ bymetmyoglobin. The capacity of the antioxidants in the sample to preventABTS oxidation was compared with that Trolox, a water-soluble tocopherolanalogue, and was quantified as a molar Trolox equivalent.

Tyrosinase activity assay: In mammalian cells, tyrosinase catalyzes twosteps in the multi-step biosynthesis of melanin pigments from tyrosine(and from the polymerization of dopachrome). Tyrosinase is localized inmelanocytes and produces melanin (aromatic quinone compounds) thatimparts color to skin, hair, and eyes.

Purified mushroom tyrosinase (Sigma) was incubated with its substrateL-Dopa (Fisher) in the presence or absence of each of the extracts inTable 1. Pigment formation was evaluated by colorimetric plate readingat 490 nm. The percent inhibition of mushroom tyrosinase activity wascalculated compared to non-treated controls to determine the ability oftest extracts to inhibit the activity of purified enzyme. Test extractinhibition was compared with that of kojic acid (Sigma).

Matrix Metalloproteinase Enzyme Activity (MMP1) Assay: An in vitromatrix metalloprotease (MMP) inhibition assay. MMPs are extracellularproteases that play a role in many normal and disease states by virtueof their broad substrate specificity. MMP1 substrates include collagenIV. The Molecular Probes Enz/Chek Gelatinase/Collagenase Assay kit(#E12055) utilizes a fluorogenic gelatin substrate to detect MMP1protease activity. Upon proteolytic cleavage, bright green fluorescenceis revealed and may be monitored using a fluorescent microplate readerto measure enzymatic activity.

The Enz/Chek Gelatinase/Collagenase Assay kit (#E12055) from Invitrogenwas used as an in vitro assay to measure MMP1 enzymatic activity foreach of the extracts identified in Tables 1-3. The assay relies upon theability of purified MMP1 enzyme to degrade a fluorogenic gelatinsubstrate. Once the substrate is specifically cleaved by MMP1 brightgreen fluorescence is revealed and may be monitored using a fluorescentmicroplate reader. Test materials are incubated in the presence orabsence of the purified enzyme and substrate to determine their proteaseinhibitor capacity.

Lipoxygenase (LO) Assay: An in vitro lipoxygenase (LO) inhibition assay.LOs are non-heme iron-containing dioxygenases that catalyze the additionof molecular oxygen to fatty acids. Linoleate and arachidonate are themain substrates for LOs in plants and animals. Arachadonic acid may thenbe converted to hydroxyeicosotrienenoic (HETE) acid derivatives, thatare subsequently converted to leukotirenes, potent inflammatorymediators. This assay provides an accurate and convenient method forscreening lipoxygenase inhibitors by measuring the hydroperoxidesgenerated from the incubation of a lipoxygenase (5-, 12-, or 15-LO) witharachidonic acid.

The Colorimetric LO Inhibitor screening kit (#760700, Cayman Chemical)was used to determine the ability of each of the extracts identified inTables 1-3 to inhibit enzyme activity. Purified 15-lipoxygenase and testextracts were mixed in assay buffer and incubated with shaking for 10min at room temperature. Following incubation, arachidonic acid wasadded to initiate the reaction and mixtures incubated for an additional10 min at room temperature. Colorimetric substrate was added toterminate catalysis and color progression was evaluated by fluorescenceplate reading at 490 nm. The percent inhibition of lipoxyganse activitywas calculated compared to non-treated controls to determine the abilityof test extracts to inhibit the activity of purified enzyme.

Example 3 Paricular Combinations of Extracts

Based, in part, on the above data, it was discovered that a combinationof an aqueous extract from the whole plant of Boehmeria platyphylla, anaqueous extract from the whole plant of Cratoxylum prunifolium, and anaqueous extract from the whole plant of Excoecaria acerifolia can beused to inhibit/reduce the activity of MMP-1 in skin cells. This canlead to increased collagen within skin, which can reduce the appearanceof fine lines and wrinkles Aqueous extracts of the whole plant were usedto obtain this data (see FIG. 1, H₂O part (v)). This combination canalso be used to inhibit/reduce lipoxygenase activity, TNF-α activity,and protect skin cells from oxidative damage caused by free-radicals andreactive oxygen species. The use of whole plant leads to an extracthaving different ingredients when compared, with an extract from aportion of the same plant (e.g., leaf or flower extract).

A further discovery was the combination of an aqueous extract from thewhole plant of Boehmeria platyphylla, an aqueous extract from the wholeplant of Karelinia caspica, and an aqueous extract from the whole plantof Inula helianthus-aquatica to inhibit/reduce TNF-a activity in saidskin. This is beneficial in that it can prevent the inflammationcascade, which can lead to damaged skin cells and present as inflamed orerythemic skin. The combination can also inhibit MMP-1 activity andlipoxygenase activity in said skin and protect skin cells from oxidativedamage caused by free-radicals and reactive oxygen species. Aspreviously noted, aqueous extracts of the whole plant were used toobtain this data (see FIG. 1, H₂O part (v)). The use of whole plantleads to an extract having different ingredients when compared, with anextract from a portion of the same plant (e.g., leaf or flower extract).

An additional discovery was the combination of an aqueous extract fromthe whole plant of Artabotrys hexapetalus, an aqueous extract from thewhole plant of Sassafras tzumu, and an aqueous extract from the wholeplant of Prunus salicina to protect skin cells from oxidative damagecaused by free-radicals and reactive oxygen species. This combinationcan also inhibit MMP-1 and lipoxygenase activity in skin cells. Aspreviously noted, aqueous extracts of the whole plant were used toobtain this data (see FIG. 1, H₂O part (v)). Again, the use of wholeplant leads to an extract having different ingredients when compared,with an extract from a portion of the same plant (e.g., leaf or flowerextract).

Another discovery is the use of an aqueous extract from the whole plantof Rhododendron moulmainense to inhibit/reduce tyrosinase activity inskin cells. By attacking the tyrosinase pathway, a reduction in melaninproduction can be obtained. This allows for the skin to appear ligher,thus reducing the appearance of dark spots, liver spots, age spots, sunspots, hyperpigmented skin, and melasmic skin. The addition of aqueousextracts from the whole plants of Calliandra haematocephala and Xylosmajaponicum can further help the skin by inhibiting/reducing MMP-1 andlipoxygenase activity in the skin cells. As previously noted, aqueousextracts of the whole plant were used to obtain this data (see FIG. 1,H₂O part (v)). Again, the use of whole plant leads to an extract havingdifferent ingredients when compared, with an extract from a portion ofthe same plant (e.g., leaf or flower extract).

Example 4 Testing Vehicles and Sample Compositions

Tables 2 and 3 describe generic skin testing formulations in which askin active ingredient can be incorporated into to determine the typesof skin benefits that can be attributed to the skin active ingredient.These formulations are prepared in such a manner that any resulting skinbenefit from topical application of the formula to skin can be directlyattributed to the skin active ingredient being tested. In the context ofthe present invention, the skin active ingredient that can be tested canbe a plant, plant part, or extract thereof from Michelia magnifica,Xylosma japonicum, Prunus cerasifera, Nyssa sinensis, Chimonanthuspraecox, Sassafras tzumu, Inula helianthus-aquatica, Capparis bodinieri,Passiflora caerulea, Galium aparine, Boehmeria platyphylla, Colquhouniacoccinea, Sageretia rugosa, Jasminum stephanense, Antirrhinum majus,Daphniphyllum oldhamii, Cuscuta chinensis, Salix variegate, Osmanthusparvifolius, Euphorbia trigona, Calliandra haematocephala, Excoecariaacerifolia, Dianthus chinensis, Myriophyllum spicatum, Nymphoidespeltatum, Prunus salicina, Solanum coagulans, Elaeis guineensis,Rhododendron moulmainense, Spatholobus suberectus, Artabotryshexapetalus, Hibiscus syriacus, Lonicera calcarata, Hydnocarpushainanensis, Ilex fragilis, Antidesma venosum, Acacia pennata ssp.Kerrii, Althaea rosea, Millettia velutina, Themeda japonica, Dalbergiahancei, Ipomoea batatas, Photinia glomerate, Hippophae rhamnoides,Azadirachta indica, Karelinia caspica, Bauhinia touranensis, Eriobotryajaponicas, Anaphalis contorta, and/or Cratoxylum prunifolium, or anycombination thereof, or all of such plants, plant parts, or extractsthereof, or at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, and/or50 of such plants, plant parts, or extracts thereof. Any portion of theplant extract can be used for testing (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower,flower bulb, bark, fruit, seed, sap, whole plant etc.). It should berecognized that other standard testing vehicles can also be used todetermine the skin benefit properties of extracts obtained from theplant extracts and that the following formulations are non-limitingtesting vehicles.

TABLE 2* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Phase A Water 84.80Xanthum gum 0.1 M-paraben 0.15 P-paraben 0.1 Citric acid 0.1 Phase BCetyl alcohol 4.0 Glyceryl stearate + PEG 100 4.0 Octyl palmitate 4.0Dimethicone 1.0 Tocopheryl acetate 0.2 Phase C Plant Extract** 2.0 TOTAL100 *Procedure for making composition: Sprinkle Xanthum gum in water andmix for 10 min. Subsequently, add all ingredients in phase A and heat to70-75° C. Add all items in phase B to separate beaker and heat to 70-75°C. Mix phases A and B at 70-75° C. Continue mixing and allow compositionto cool to 30° C. Subsequently, add phase C ingredient while mixing.**The plant extracts identified throughout this specification can beincorporated into this testing formulation as the skin activeingredient. The extracts can be individually used or combined in thistesting vehicle. The concentration ranges of the extract (or combinationof extracts) can be modified as desired or needed by increasing ordecreasing the amount of water. Any portion of the plant can be used tocreate the skin-active extract (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, flowerbulb, bark, fruit, seed, seed pod, sap, whole plant etc.). For instance,the combinations noted in Example 3 can be used.

TABLE 3* Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Phase A Water 78.6M-paraben 0.2 P-paraben 0.1 Na2 EDTA 0.1 Shea butter 4.5 Petrolatum 4.5Glycerin 4.0 Propylene Glycol 2.0 Finsolve TN 2.0 Phase B Sepigel 3052.0 Phase C Plant Extract** 2.0 TOTAL 100 *Add ingredients in phase A tobeaker and heat to 70-75° C. while mixing. Subsequently, add the phase Bingredient with phase A and cool to 30° C. with mixing. Subsequently,add phase C ingredient while mixing. **The plant extracts identifiedthroughout this specification can be incorporated into this testingformulation as the skin active ingredient. The extracts can beindividually used or combined in this testing vehicle. The concentrationranges of the extract (or combination of extracts) can be modified asdesired or needed by increasing or decreasing the amount of water. Anyportion of the plant can be used to create the skin-active extract(e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, flower bulb, bark, fruit, seed, seedpod, sap, whole plant etc.). For instance, the combinations noted inExample 3 can be used.

The formulations represented in Table 4-9 are non-limiting examples ofthe types of formulations that can be prepared in the context of thepresent invention. Any standard method can be used to prepare suchformulations. For instance, simple mixing of the ingredients in a beakercan be used. One should mix such ingredients and add heat as necessaryto obtain a homogenous composition.

Table 4 includes a non-limiting example of a composition of the presentinvention. The composition can be formulated into an emulsion (e.g.,o/w, w/o, o/w/o, w/o/w, etc.) and the additional ingredients identifiedthroughout the specification can be included into the Table 4composition (e.g., by adjusting the water content of composition).Further, the concentration ranges of the ingredients identified in Table6 can vary depending on a desired formulation (e.g., cream, lotion,moisturizer cleanser, etc.).

TABLE 4 Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. Plant Extract*0.1% to 10% Glycerin 3 to 40% Butylene glycol 0.0001 to 10% Propyleneglycol 0.0001 to 10% Phenoxyethanol 0.0001 to 10% Disodium EDTA 0.0001to 10% Steareth-20 0.0001 to 10% Chlorhexidine Diglunonate 0.0001 to 10%Potasium Sorbate 0.0001 to 10% Preservative** 0.0001 to 2% TOTAL 100*The plant extracts identified throughout this specification can beincorporated into this testing formulation as the skin activeingredient. The extracts can be individually used or combined in thistesting vehicle. The concentration ranges of the extract (or combinationof extracts) can be modified as desired or needed by increasing ordecreasing the amount of water. Any portion of the plant can be used tocreate the skin-active extract (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, flowerbulb, bark, fruit, seed, seed pod, sap, whole plant etc.). For instance,the combinations noted in Example 3 can be used. **Any preservative canbe used identified in the specification or those known in the art.

Table 5 includes a non-limiting example of a composition of the presentinvention. The composition can be formulated into an emulsion (e.g.,o/w, w/o, o/w/o, w/o/w, etc.) and the additional ingredients identifiedthroughout the specification can be included into the Table 5composition (e.g., by adjusting the water content of composition).Further, the concentration ranges of the ingredients identified in Table5 can vary depending on a desired formulation (e.g., cream, lotion,moisturizer cleanser, etc.).

TABLE 5 Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. Plant Extract*0.1% to 10% Dimethicone 0.0001 to 10% Triethanolamine 0.0001 to 10%Phenonip 0.0001 to 10% Betaine 0.0001 to 10% Disodium EDTA 0.0001 to 10%Tocopheryl acetate 0.0001 to 10% Prodew 400 0.0001 to 10% Preservative**0.0001 to 2% TOTAL 100 *The plant extracts identified throughout thisspecification can be incorporated into this testing formulation as theskin active ingredient. The extracts can be individually used orcombined in this testing vehicle. The concentration ranges of theextract (or combination of extracts) can be modified as desired orneeded by increasing or decreasing the amount of water. Any portion ofthe plant can be used to create the skin-active extract (e.g., root,stem, leaf, flower, flower bulb, bark, fruit, seed, seed pod, sap, wholeplant etc.). For instance, the combinations noted in Example 3 can beused. **Any preservative can be used identified in the specification orthose known in the art.

Table 6 includes a non-limiting example of a composition of the presentinvention. The composition can be formulated into an emulsion (e.g.,o/w, w/o, o/w/o, w/o/w, etc.) and the additional ingredients identifiedthroughout the specification can be included into the Table 6composition (e.g., by adjusting the water content of composition).Further, the concentration ranges of the ingredients identified in Table6 can vary depending on a desired formulation (e.g., cream, lotion,moisturizer cleanser, etc.). In particular embodiments, the Table 8composition can be a moisturizer.

TABLE 6 Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. Plant Extract*0.1% to 10% Glycerin 0.0001 to 10% Pentylene Glycol 0.0001 to 10% CaprylGlycol 0.0001 to 10% Disodium EDTA 0.0001 to 10% Capric/CaprylicTriglyceride 0.0001 to 10% Lipex 205 (Shea Butter) 0.0001 to 10%Squalane 0.0001 to 10% Cetyl Alcohol 0.0001 to 10% Dimethicone 0.0001 to10% Ceramide II 0.0001 to 10% Stearic Acid 0.0001 to 10% Super SterolEster 0.0001 to 10% Arlacel 165 0.0001 to 10% Simulgel 600 0.0001 to 10%TOTAL 100 *The plant extracts identified throughout this specificationcan be incorporated into this testing formulation as the skin activeingredient. The extracts can be individually used or combined in thistesting vehicle. The concentration ranges of the extract (or combinationof extracts) can be modified as desired or needed by increasing ordecreasing the amount of water. Any portion of the plant can be used tocreate the skin-active extract (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, flowerbulb, bark, fruit, seed, seed pod, sap, whole plant etc.). For instance,the combinations noted in Example 3 can be used.

Table 7 includes a non-limiting example of a composition of the presentinvention. The composition can be formulated into an emulsion (e.g.,o/w, w/o, o/w/o, w/o/w, etc.) and the additional ingredients identifiedthroughout the specification can be included into the Table 7composition (e.g., by adjusting the water content of composition).Further, the concentration ranges of the ingredients identified in Table7 can vary depending on a desired formulation (e.g., cream, lotion,moisturizer cleanser, etc.). In particular embodiments, the Table 9composition can be a moisturizer.

TABLE 7 Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. Plant Extract*0.1% to 10% Glycerin 0.0001 to 10% Pentylene Glycol 0.0001 to 10% CaprylGlycol 0.0001 to 10% Disodium EDTA 0.0001 to 10% Petrolatum 0.0001 to10% Squalane 0.0001 to 10% Cetyl Alcohol 0.0001 to 10% Arlacel 1650.0001 to 10% Dimethicone 0.0001 to 10% Simulgel 600 0.0001 to 10% TOTAL100 *The plant extracts identified throughout this specification can beincorporated into this testing formulation as the skin activeingredient. The extracts can be individually used or combined in thistesting vehicle. The concentration ranges of the extract (or combinationof extracts) can be modified as desired or needed by increasing ordecreasing the amount of water. Any portion of the plant can be used tocreate the skin-active extract (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, flowerbulb, bark, fruit, seed, seed pod, sap, whole plant etc.). For instance,the combinations noted in Example 3 can be used.

Table 8 includes a non-limiting example of a composition of the presentinvention. The composition can be formulated into an emulsion (e.g.,o/w, w/o, o/w/o, w/o/w, etc.) and the additional ingredients identifiedthroughout the specification can be included into the Table 8composition (e.g., by adjusting the water content of composition).Further, the concentration ranges of the ingredients identified in Table8 can vary depending on a desired formulation (e.g., cream, lotion,moisturizer cleanser, etc.). In particular embodiments, the Table 8composition can be a sunscreen lotion.

TABLE 8 Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. Plant Extract*0.1% to 10% Xanthan Gum 0.0001 to 10% Disodium EDTA 0.0001 to 10%Pentylene Glycol 0.0001 to 10% Capryl Glycol 0.0001 to 10% Pemulen TR-10.0001 to 10% Triethanolamine 0.0001 to 10% PVP/Hexadecene Copolymer0.0001 to 10% Finsolv TN 10 to 30% Sorbitan Isostearate 0.0001 to 10%Sunscreen Ingredient** 2 to 25% TOTAL 100 *The plant extracts identifiedthroughout this specification can be incorporated into this testingformulation as the skin active ingredient. The extracts can beindividually used or combined in this testing vehicle. The concentrationranges of the extract (or combination of extracts) can be modified asdesired or needed by increasing or decreasing the amount of water. Anyportion of the plant can be used to create the skin-active extract(e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, flower bulb, bark, fruit, seed, seedpod, sap, whole plant etc.). For instance, the combinations noted inExample 3 can be used. **Sunscreen ingredient can be any sunscreeningredient, or combination of such ingredients, identified in thespecification or known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In oneembodiment, the sunscreen ingredient is a combination of zinc oxide andtitanium dioxide.

Table 9 includes a non-limiting example of a composition of the presentinvention. The additional ingredients identified throughout thespecification can be included into the Table 9 composition (e.g., byadjusting the water content of composition). Further, the concentrationranges of the ingredients identified in Table 9 can vary depending on adesired formulation (e.g., cream, lotion, moisturizer cleanser, etc.).In particular embodiments, the Table 9 composition can be a cleanser.

TABLE 9 Ingredient % Concentration (by weight) Water q.s. Plant Extract*0.1% to 10% Disodium EDTA 0.0001 to 10% Citric Acid 0.0001 to 10%Pentylene Glycol 0.0001 to 10% Capryl Glycol 0.0001 to 10% sodium methylcocoyl taurate 10 to 30% sodium cocoamphodiacetate 1 to 10% TOTAL 100*The plant extracts identified throughout this specification can beincorporated into this testing formulation as the skin activeingredient. The extracts can be individually used or combined in thistesting vehicle. The concentration ranges of the extract (or combinationof extracts) can be modified as desired or needed by increasing ordecreasing the amount of water. Any portion of the plant can be used tocreate the skin-active extract (e.g., root, stem, leaf, flower, flowerbulb, bark, fruit, seed, seed pod, sap, whole plant etc.). For instance,the combinations noted in Example 3 can be used.

Example 5 Assays that can be Used to Test Compositions

The efficacy of compositions comprising the plant extracts identifiedthroughout the specification, or a combination of such extracts(including, for example, the formulations identified in Tables 2-9), canbe determined by methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art.The following are non-limiting assays that can be used in the context ofthe present invention. It should be recognized that other testingprocedures can be used, including, for example, objective and subjectiveprocedures.

Erythema Assay: An assay to measure the reduction of skin redness can beevaluated using a Minolta Chromometer. Skin erythema may be induced byapplying a 0.2% solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate on the forearm of asubject. The area is protected by an occlusive patch for 24 hrs. After24 hrs, the patch is removed and the irritation-induced redness can beassessed using the a* values of the Minolta Chroma Meter. The a* valuemeasures changes in skin color in the red region. Immediately afterreading, the area is treated with a formula containing any one, or anycombination thereof, of the extracts identified throughout thespecification. In particular aspects, the extract can be a Camptothecaacuminate extract, a Loropetalum chinensis extract, a Chrysalidocarpuslutscens extract, or a Potamogenton perforliatus extract, or anycombination thereof. Repeat measurements are taken at regular intervalsto determine the formula's ability to reduce redness, inflammation, orskin irritation.

Skin Moisture/Hydration Assay: Skin moisture/hydration benefits can bemeasured by using impedance measurements with the Nova Dermal PhaseMeter. The impedance meter measures changes in skin moisture content.The outer layer of the skin has distinct electrical properties. Whenskin is dry it conducts electricity very poorly. As it becomes morehydrated increasing conductivity results. Consequently, changes in skinimpedance (related to conductivity) can be used to assess changes inskin hydration. The unit can be calibrated according to instrumentinstructions for each testing day. A notation of temperature andrelative humidity can also be made. Subjects can be evaluated asfollows: prior to measurement they can equilibrate in a room withdefined humidity (e.g., 30-50%) and temperature (e.g., 68-72° C.). Threeseparate impedance readings can be taken on each side of the face,recorded, and averaged. The T5 setting can be used on the impedancemeter which averages the impedance values of every five secondsapplication to the face. Changes can be reported with statisticalvariance and significance.

Skin Clarity and Reduction in Freckles and Age Spots Assay: Skin clarityand the reduction in freckles and age spots can be evaluated using aMinolta Chromometer. Changes in skin color can be assessed to determineirritation potential due to product treatment using the a* values of theMinolta Chroma Meter. The a* value measures changes in skin color in thered region. This is used to determine whether a composition is inducingirritation. The measurements can be made on each side of the face andaveraged, as left and right facial values. Skin clarity can also bemeasured using the Minolta Meter. The measurement is a combination ofthe a*, b, and L values of the Minolta Meter and is related to skinbrightness, and correlates well with skin smoothness and hydration. Skinreading is taken as above. In one non-limiting aspect, skin clarity canbe described as L/C where C is chroma and is defined as (a²+b²)^(1/2).

Skin Dryness, Surface Fine Lines, Skin Smoothness, and Skin Tone Assay:Skin dryness, surface fine lines, skin smoothness, and skin tone can beevaluated with clinical grading techniques. For example, clinicalgrading of skin dryness can be determined by a five point standardKligman Scale: (0) skin is soft and moist; (1) skin appears normal withno visible dryness; (2) skin feels slightly dry to the touch with novisible flaking; (3) skin feels dry, tough, and has a whitish appearancewith some scaling; and (4) skin feels very dry, rough, and has a whitishappearance with scaling. Evaluations can be made independently by twoclinicians and averaged.

Clinical Grading of Skin Tone Assay: Clinical grading of skin tone canbe performed via a ten point analog numerical scale: (10) even skin ofuniform, pinkish brown color. No dark, erythremic, or scaly patches uponexamination with a hand held magnifying lens. Microtexture of the skinvery uniform upon touch; (7) even skin tone observed withoutmagnification. No scaly areas, but slight discolorations either due topigmentation or erythema. No discolorations more than 1 cm in diameter;(4) both skin discoloration and uneven texture easily noticeable. Slightscaliness. Skin rough to the touch in some areas; and (1) uneven skincoloration and texture. Numerous areas of scaliness and discoloration,either hypopigmented, erythremic or dark spots. Large areas of unevencolor more than 1 cm in diameter. Evaluations were made independently bytwo clinicians and averaged.

Clinical Grading of Skin Smoothness Assay: Clinical grading of skinsmoothness can be analyzed via a ten point analog numerical scale: (10)smooth, skin is moist and glistening, no resistance upon dragging fingeracross surface; (7) somewhat smooth, slight resistance; (4) rough,visibly altered, friction upon rubbing; and (1) rough, flaky, unevensurface. Evaluations were made independently by two clinicians andaveraged.

Skin Smoothness and Wrinkle Reduction Assay With Methods Disclosed inPackman et al. (1978): Skin smoothness and wrinkle reduction can also beassessed visually by using the methods disclosed in Packman et al.(1978). For example, at each subject visit, the depth, shallowness andthe total number of superficial facial lines (SFLs) of each subject canbe carefully scored and recorded. A numerical score was obtained bymultiplying a number factor times a depth/width/length factor. Scoresare obtained for the eye area and mouth area (left and right sides) andadded together as the total wrinkle score.

Skin Firmness Assay with a Hargens Ballistometer: Skin firmness can bemeasured using a Hargens ballistometer, a device that evaluates theelasticity and firmness of the skin by dropping a small body onto theskin and recording its first two rebound peaks. The ballistometry is asmall lightweight probe with a relatively blunt tip (4 square mm-contactarea) was used. The probe penetrates slightly into the skin and resultsin measurements that are dependent upon the properties of the outerlayers of the skin, including the stratum corneum and outer epidermisand some of the dermal layers.

Skin Softness/Suppleness Assay with a Gas Bearing Electrodynamometer:Skin softness/suppleness can be evaluated using the Gas BearingElectrodynamometer, an instrument that measures the stress/strainproperties of the skin. The viscoelastic properties of skin correlatewith skin moisturization. Measurements can be obtained on thepredetermined site on the cheek area by attaching the probe to the skinsurface with double-stick tape. A force of approximately 3.5 gm can beapplied parallel to the skin surface and the skin displacement isaccurately measured. Skin suppleness can then be calculated and isexpressed as DSR (Dynamic Spring Rate in gm/mm).

Appearance of Lines and Wrinkles Assay with Replicas: The appearance oflines and wrinkles on the skin can be evaluated using replicas, which isthe impression of the skin's surface. Silicone rubber like material canbe used. The replica can be analyzed by image analysis. Changes in thevisibility of lines and wrinkles can be objectively quantified via thetaking of silicon replicas form the subjects' face and analyzing thereplicas image using a computer image analysis system. Replicas can betaken from the eye area and the neck area, and photographed with adigital camera using a low angle incidence lighting. The digital imagescan be analyzed with an image processing program and the are of thereplicas covered by wrinkles or fine lines was determined.

Surface Contour of the Skin Assay with a Profilometer/Stylus Method: Thesurface contour of the skin can be measured by using theprofilometer/Stylus method. This includes either shining a light ordragging a stylus across the replica surface. The vertical displacementof the stylus can be fed into a computer via a distance transducer, andafter scanning a fixed length of replica a cross-sectional analysis ofskin profile can be generated as a two-dimensional curve. This scan canbe repeated any number of times along a fix axis to generate a simulated3-D picture of the skin. Ten random sections of the replicas using thestylus technique can be obtained and combined to generate averagevalues. The values of interest include Ra which is the arithmetic meanof all roughness (height) values computed by integrating the profileheight relative to the mean profile height. Rt which is the maximumvertical distance between the highest peak and lowest trough, and Rzwhich is the mean peak amplitude minus the mean peak height. Values aregiven as a calibrated value in mm. Equipment should be standardizedprior to each use by scanning metal standards of know values. Ra Valuecan be computed by the following equation: R_(a)=Standardize roughness;l_(m)=the traverse (scan) length; and y=the absolute value of thelocation of the profile relative to the mean profile height (x-axis).

MELANODERM™ Assay: In other non-limiting aspects, the efficacy of thecompositions of the present invention can be evaluated by using a skinanalog, such as, for example, MELANODERM™. Melanocytes, one of the cellsin the skin analog, stain positively when exposed to L-dihydroxyphenylalanine (L-DOPA), a precursor of melanin. The skin analog, MELANODERM™,can be treated with a variety of bases containing the compositions andwhitening agents of the present invention or with the base alone as acontrol. Alternatively, an untreated sample of the skin analog can beused as a control.

ORAC Assay: Oxygen Radical Absorption (or Absorbance) Capacity (ORAC) ofthe aromatic skin-active ingredients and compositions can also beassayed by measuring the antioxidant activity of such ingredients orcompositions. This assay can quantify the degree and length of time ittakes to inhibit the action of an oxidizing agent such as oxygenradicals that are known to cause damage cells (e.g., skin cells). TheORAC value of the aromatic skin-active ingredients and compositions canbe determined by methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art(see U.S. Publication Nos. 2004/0109905 and 2005/0163880; Cao et al.(1993)), all of which are incorporated by reference). In summary, theassay described in Cao et al. (1993) measures the ability of antioxidantcompounds in test materials to inhibit the decline of B-phycoerythrm(B-PE) fluorescence that is induced by a peroxyl radical generator,AAPH.

Matrix Metalloproteinase Enzyme Activity (MMP3; MMP9) Assay: An in vitromatrix metalloprotease (MMP) inhibition assay. MMPs are extracellularproteases that play a role in many normal and disease states by virtueof their broad substrate specificity. MMP3 substrates include collagens,fibronectins, and laminin; while MMP9 substrates include collagen VII,fibronectins and laminin. Using Colorimetric Drug Discovery kits fromBioMol International for MMP3 (AK-400) and MMP-9 (AK-410), this assay isdesigned to measure protease activity of MMPs using a thiopeptide as achromogenic substrate(Ac-PLG-[2-mercapto-4-methyl-pentanoyl]-LG-OC₂H₅)5,6. The MMP cleavagesite peptide bond is replaced by a thioester bond in the thiopeptide.Hydrolysis of this bond by an MMP produces a sulfhydryl group, whichreacts with DTNB [5,5′-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid), Ellman's reagent]to form 2-nitro-5-thiobenzoic acid, which can be detected by itsabsorbance at 412 nm (c=13,600 M-1 cm-1 at pH 6.0 and above 7).

B16 Melanogenesis Assay: Melanogenesis is the process by whichmelanocytes produce melanin, a naturally produced pigment that impartscolor to skin, hair, and eyes. Inhibiting melanogenesis is beneficial toprevent skin darkening and lighten dark spots associated with aging.This bioassay utilizes B16-F1 melanocytes (ATCC), an immortalized mousemelanoma cell line, to analyze the effect of compounds on melanogenesis.The endpoint of this assay is a spectrophotometric measurement ofmelanin production and cellular viability. B16-F1 melanocytes, can becultivated in standard DMEM growth medium with 10% fetal bovine serum(Mediatech) at 37° C. in 10% CO₂, and treated with each of the extractsidentified in the specification. Following incubation, melanin secretioncan be measured by absorbance at 405 nm and cellular viability can bequantified.

Collagen Stimulation Assay: Collagen is an extracellular matrix proteincritical for skin structure. Increased synthesis of collagen helpsimprove skin firmness and elasticity. This bioassay analyzes the effectof extracts on the production of procollagen peptide (a precursor tocollagen) by human epidermal fibroblasts. The endpoint of this assay isa spectrophotometric measurement that reflects the presence ofprocollagen peptide and cellular viability. The assay employs thequantitative sandwich enzyme immunoassay technique whereby a monoclonalantibody specific for procollagen peptide has been pre-coated onto amicroplate. Standards and samples are pipetted into the wells and anyprocollagen peptide present is bound by the immobilized antibody. Afterwashing away any unbound substances, an enzyme-linked polyclonalantibody specific for procollagen peptide is added to the wells.Following a wash to remove any unbound antibody-enzyme reagent, asubstrate solution is added to the wells and color develops inproportion to the amount of procollagen peptide bound in the initialstep using a microplate reader for detection at 450 nm. The colordevelopment is stopped and the intensity of the color is measured.

In particular, the assay could be performed as follows: subconfluentnormal human adult epidermal fibroblasts (Cascade Biologics) cultivatedin standard DMEM growth medium with 10% fetal bovine serum (Mediatech)at 37° C. in 10% CO₂, can be treated with each of the extractsidentified in the specification. Following incubation, cell culturemedium can be collected and the amount of procollagen peptide secretioncan be quantified using a sandwhich enzyme linked immuno-sorbant assay(ELISA) from Takara (#MK101).

All of the skin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods disclosedand claimed in this specification can be made and executed without undueexperimentation in light of the present disclosure. While theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods of this invention havebeen described in terms of particular embodiments, it will be apparentto those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to theskin-active ingredients, compositions, or methods and in the steps or inthe sequence of steps of the method described herein without departingfrom the concept, spirit and scope of the invention.

1. A topical skin composition comprising: (a) a first MMP-1 inhibitor,wherein said first inhibitor is an aqueous extract from Boehmeriaplatyphylla; (b) a second MMP-1 inhibitor, wherein said second inhibitoris an aqueous extract from Cratoxylum prunifolium; and (c) a third MMP-1inhibitor, wherein said third inhibitor is an aqueous extract fromExcoecaria acerifolia.
 2. The topical skin composition of claim 1,wherein the composition is an emulsion, cream, lotion, or solution. 3.The topical skin composition of claim 2, wherein the compositionincludes from about 0.001% to about 5% by weight of said aqueous extractfrom Boehmeria platyphylla, from about 0.001% to about 5% by weight ofsaid aqueous extract from Cratoxylum prunifolium, and from about 0.001%to about 5% by weight of said aqueous extract from Excoecariaacerifolia.
 4. The topical skin composition of claim 3, wherein thecomposition comprises a moisturization agent, an antioxidant, astructuring or thickening agent, and an emulsifier.
 5. The topical skincomposition of claim 4, wherein the composition further includes asilicone containing compound.
 6. The topical skin composition of claim5, wherein the composition further includes a sunscreen agent.
 7. Thetopical skin compositon of claim 1, wherein each of said aqueousextracts are obtained from the whole plant of Boehmeria platyphylla,Cratoxylum prunifolium, and Excoecaria acerifolia, respectively.
 8. Thetopical skin composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is acleanser product, a toner product, a moisturizer product, or a maskproduct.
 9. The topical skin composition of claim 1, wherein said firstMMP-1 inhibitor is also an antioxidant, a TNF-α inhibitor, and alipoxygenase inhibitor, wherein said second MMP-1 inhibitor is also anantioxidant, and wherein said third MMP-1 inhibitor is also anantioxidant and a lipoxygenase inhibitor.
 10. A method of treating skincomprising topically applying the composition of claim 1 to skin in needthereof, wherein topical application of said composition treats saidskin.
 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the composition inhibits MMP-1activity and lipoxygenase activity in said skin.
 12. The method of claim11, wherein the composition is applied to a fine line or wrinkle. 13.The method of claim 10, wherein the composition inhibits TNF-α activityin said skin.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the composition isapplied to erythemic or inflamed skin.
 15. The method of claim 10,wherein the composition reduces oxidative damage in skin cells.
 16. Themethod of claim 10, wherein each of said aqueous extracts are obtainedfrom the whole plant of Boehmeria platyphylla, Cratoxylum prunifolium,and Excoecaria acerifolia, respectively.
 17. A topical skin compositioncomprising: (a) a first TNF-α inhibitor, wherein said first inhibitor isan aqueous extract from Boehmeria platyphylla; (b) a second TNF-αinhibitor, wherein said second inhibitor is an aqueous extract fromKarelinia caspica; and (c) a third TNF-α inhibitor, wherein said thirdinhibitor is an aqueous extract from Inula helianthus-aquatica.
 18. Atopical skin composition comprising: (a) a first antioxidant, whereinsaid first antioxidant is an aqueous extract from Artabotryshexapetalus; (b) a second antioxidant, wherein said second antioxidantis an aqueous extract from Sassafras tzumu; and (c) a third antioxidant,wherein said third antioxidant is an aqueous extract from Prunussalicina.
 19. A topical skin composition comprising a tyrosinaseinhibitor, wherein said tyrosinase inhibitor is an aqueous extract fromRhododendron moulmainense.
 20. The topical skin composition of claim 19,wherein the composition further comprises a MMP-1 and lipoxygenaseinhibitor, wherein said MMP-1 and lipoxygenase inhibitor is an aqueousextract from Calliandra haematocephala, and an antioxidant, wherein saidantioxidant is an aqueous extract from Xylosma japonicum.